Inter Milan`s star striker Lautaro Martinez has revealed the emotional turmoil he experienced before the crucial Champions League semi-final against Barcelona. Despite initial fears of missing the match due to injury, Martinez not only played but also scored a pivotal goal in Inter`s dramatic 4-3 victory (7-6 on aggregate).
“I spent two days at home crying when I thought I`d miss the game,” Martinez confessed. “But thanks to our medical team`s hard work, I managed to recover, even if I wasn`t at full fitness. This is how I approach football – you have to give everything in these matches. I promised my family I`d be on the pitch today.”
The Argentine forward`s determination paid off as he opened the scoring and earned a penalty, which Hakan Calhanoglu converted. Martinez`s performance was crucial in helping Inter secure their place in the Champions League final, where they will face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain in Munich on May 31.
Reflecting on the team`s journey, Martinez added, “We`ve been thinking about this opportunity since the day after we lost the last final. Inter has been raising its level for four or five years now, and we`re proud of that. This team never gives up, and our fans are incredible.”
Inter`s resilience was on full display as they overcame a strong Barcelona side in a thrilling contest that went to extra time. The victory marks Inter`s second Champions League final appearance in three years, following their narrow 1-0 loss to Manchester City in 2023.
As the team prepares for the final, Martinez emphasized their determination: “Now we need to recover our energy, finish the season strong, and seize this opportunity to make history.”