Barca vs Inter: All Eyes on Lamine Yamal, the 16-Year-Old Problem Inter Can’t Solve

Inter Milan is getting ready to face Barcelona in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final — but let’s be honest, all the spotlight is on one name: Lamine Yamal.

At just 16, the Barça wonderkid is tearing up Europe’s biggest stage. In the first leg, not only did he become the youngest-ever Champions League semi-final goalscorer, but his whole performance left jaws on the floor.

Dribbles that broke ankles, passes with laser precision, and pace that melted defenders. Inter’s bench knew they were in trouble.

“I haven’t seen a player like him in the last 8–9 years,” said Inter boss Simone Inzaghi after the 3–3 first leg thriller. “We put three men on him — and he still found space. That opened up gaps everywhere.”

Inter had a plan to stop Barça’s attack. What they didn’t have was a plan for Lamine Yamal. Every time they doubled up on him, he just dragged them out of shape.

Even Inter’s rock-solid defender Alessandro Bastoni was impressed:

“He’s probably the best I’ve faced. His ability to create chances is unreal.”

Now heading into the second leg, Inzaghi has a big problem: how do you stop a generational talent?

When asked if Inter would try something new to stop Yamal, Inzaghi didn’t hold back:
“It’s hard. We’ll try to keep the ball away from him — but that’s almost impossible. We’ll double-mark him, but he’s too dangerous. His football brain is next level.”

Some tactical changes on Inter’s left flank are possible, maybe more minutes for Dimarco and Carlos Augusto. But Inzaghi knows this isn’t just about Yamal. “Barça has other stars too,” he added. Still, no doubt who’s priority #1.

Truth is, Barça isn’t a one-man team. But right now, Yamal is forcing Inter to rip up their playbook.

Wednesday’s decider? It starts with Yamal. And if Inter’s not careful, it might end with him too. 🪄⚽