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Inter Milan have good news before their big Champions League semi-final against Barcelona. Captain Lautaro Martínez and defender Benjamin Pavard are back in training.
KEY PLAYERS READY TO PLAY
Both Lautaro Martínez and Benjamin Pavard joined the first part of Inter’s training yesterday. This gives hope they might play in Tuesday’s important game at San Siro. Martínez was unsure after limping off at half-time in their exciting 3-3 draw in the first leg. He had a muscle issue. Tests showed no serious injury, and his recovery looks good.
Similarly, Pavard missed the first leg because of an ankle sprain but is now doing partial training. The French defender might return just in time to strengthen Inter’s defense. They need to stop Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski, who is back from injury.
WHAT THE COACH SAYS
Although things look positive, Inter manager Simone Inzaghi hasn’t confirmed if either player will start on Tuesday. In a press conference, Inzaghi said, “We’ll decide tomorrow with the medical team. They joined the first part of training, and things look okay. Everything depends on how they feel. If a player can’t start, it’s hard for him to make a big impact later in the game. We’ll decide tomorrow.”
Having both players back would be great for Inter’s chances to reach the final. Martínez has been in great form in the Champions League this season, scoring 8 goals in just 7 starts. Meanwhile, Pavard’s strong defense could be key against Barcelona’s strong attack.
WHAT’S IMPORTANT
After the 3-3 draw in Barcelona, the tie is even going into the second leg. Inter are top of Serie A and have already won the league title. They want to reach their first Champions League final since 2010 when they won the title under José Mourinho.
The winner of this semi-final will play either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the final at Wembley Stadium on May 31. Inter have the advantage of playing at home and possibly having a full team. They are confident, but Barcelona’s away goals in the first leg mean the Catalan team is still a big threat.
