Inter vs Barça: Opta's prediction for a Champions League semi-final that promises maximum excitement

Key day for FC Barcelona in their objective to reach the grand final of the UEFA Champions League 2024-25. Hansi Flick's team faces a demanding visit to the Giuseppe Meazza to face Inter Milan, in the return leg of a 'semis' that promises to be epic.

It should be remembered that, in the first leg played in Montjuïc, no major differences were made: 3-3 draw in a vibrant duel that highlighted the offensive power of both teams. Now, with the tie open, any detail can tip the balance.

The Opta Analyst supercomputer gives Barça as favorite

On the verge of such a momentous commitment, predictions are beginning to emerge about which team will prevail. One of the most prominent is that of the Opta Analyst supercomputer, which bases its projections on complex statistical models, including recent results, historical data, and more than 10,000 simulations.

According to this analysis, FC Barcelona is the main favorite to advance to the final after a decade without achieving it. The model gives them a 38% chance of qualifying, just above Inter Milan's 36%. The remaining 26% corresponds to a possible draw that would take the tie to extra time, although in that case, Opta does not offer a clear prediction about the outcome.

PSG, favorite in the other semifinal according to projections

In addition to the analysis of the duel between Barça and Inter, Opta has also projected which team would advance from the other bracket. According to their metrics, Paris Saint-Germain is the other big favorite to reach the final of the UEFA Champions League 2024-25, with a 45% chance, after winning 1-0 against Arsenal in the first leg with a goal from Ousmane Dembélé.

The London team keeps its hopes alive with a 29% chance, while the remaining 26% represents the possibility of a global draw that is resolved through extra time.

A possible unprecedented final, but with history between the clubs

If the supercomputer's predictions are fulfilled, the final of the UEFA Champions League 2024-25 would pit FC Barcelona against PSG, an unprecedented clash at this stage, but with a recent history full of emotions.

Both clubs have met 15 times in European competitions, with a balance favorable to Barça: six wins, four draws and five losses. A final between culés and Parisians would be the perfect culmination to an intense season, with scores to settle and renowned figures on both sides.