On Tuesday morning, seasoned sports analyst Philip Kobina Inkumsah made a bold call on Sompa FM/TV—tipping Inter Milan as favourites against Spanish giants Barcelona in their UEFA Champions League clash. By Tuesday evening, his prediction proved prophetic, as Simone Inzaghi’s men edged out a determined Barcelona side in a pulsating 4-3 victory.
Inkumsah’s analysis was rooted in tactical realism and deep insight into the squad dynamics of both teams. He highlighted Simone Inzaghi’s game management style, describing it as a modern evolution of the Italian “Catenaccio”—compact, responsive, and rhythm-sensitive. That was on full display at the San Siro as Inter executed a controlled yet dynamic game plan, exploiting Barcelona’s weaknesses with clinical precision.
With Jules Kounde sidelined, Barcelona lost a key figure both in defense and wide build-up play. As forecasted by Inkumsah, Inter capitalized on the absence, keeping rising star Lamine Yamal tightly marked throughout the match. While the 17-year-old dazzled in the first leg and still showed glimpses of brilliance, he was largely kept quiet thanks to Inter’s strategic pressing and wide coverage.
Up front, the absence of Robert Lewandowski was just as glaring. Ferran Torres, though energetic, struggled to penetrate the rock-solid defensive partnership of Francesco Acerbi and Alessandro Bastoni. Inter’s defensive duo demonstrated a deep understanding and positional intelligence that frustrated Barcelona’s attempts at goal.
On the other end of the pitch, Marcus Thuram was relentless. His intelligent movement around the penalty arc, as highlighted by Inkumsah, proved pivotal. Denzel Dumfries also played a starring role, repeatedly delivering dangerous cut-backs and creating opportunities with his superb reading of the game.
Despite a valiant effort by Barcelona, Inter’s superior squad depth and individual brilliance proved decisive. Yann Sommer made key saves to keep the Italians in front, and with Inzaghi’s game plan unfolding to perfection, Inter secured a dramatic victory that sends a message to all contenders.
“This game is a final before the grand finale,” said Inkumsah—and after the 90 minutes plus extra time, fans and pundits alike would agree.
