Erling Haaland recently showed his admiration for Lamine Yamal's outstanding performance during Barcelona's 3-3 draw against Inter Milan in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final. The Manchester City striker reacted on Snapchat to Yamal’s stunning solo goal by writing, “This guy is incredible.”
The thrilling encounter at the Estadi OlÃmpic LluÃs Companys featured six goals and numerous standout moments. Inter Milan took a stunning lead just 30 seconds after kickoff through Marcus Thuram, who scored with a clever back-heel finish. Denzel Dumfries later extended Inter’s advantage in the 21st minute with an impressive volley from a corner.
Barcelona quickly responded as Lamine Yamal produced a brilliant solo effort in the 24th minute, weaving through defenders before calmly slotting home. Ferran Torres continued the comeback, finding the equaliser just before halftime to bring the score to 2-2.
In the second half, Dumfries struck again with a well-placed header to put Inter 3-2 ahead. However, Barcelona levelled the score again shortly after when Raphinha’s effort deflected off Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer and into the net for an own goal.
Yamal’s performance was not only decisive but also historic. At just 17 years old, he became the youngest player to score in a Champions League semi-final, surpassing the previous record set by Kylian Mbappé. In addition, he reached a remarkable milestone by becoming the youngest player to make 100 appearances for Barcelona.
The teenager’s display earned widespread praise. Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni described Yamal as "probably the strongest winger in the world," while Inter coach Simone Inzaghi referred to him as "a talent that is born every fifty years." Yamal even came close to scoring a second goal in the match, striking the bar in the closing stages.
With the tie evenly poised at 3-3, the return leg at San Siro promises to be decisive. Barcelona will aim to capitalise on their attacking momentum while tightening up defensively, as both teams look to secure a place in the Champions League final.
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