Barcelona delivered a pulsating display of resilience and attacking flair as they twice came from behind to draw 3-3 with Inter Milan in a Champions League semi-final first-leg classic at the Olympic Stadium.

The night began in the worst possible fashion for Barça. Just 30 seconds into the match, Inter’s Marcus Thuram stunned the home crowd with a deft backheel finish from Denzel Dumfries’ low cross — the fastest goal ever scored in a Champions League semi-final. Things went from bad to worse 20 minutes later when Dumfries himself doubled Inter’s lead with a jaw-dropping overhead kick that silenced the home fans and suggested Barcelona were in for a long night.

But then cameLamine Yamal. The 17-year-old sensation reminded the world why he is already one of the brightest talents in football. In his 100th appearance for the club, Yamal danced past defenders with the poise of a veteran before slotting home a beautiful finish that kissed the post. It was the moment that reignited belief in Hansi Flick’s men.

Barcelona drew level just before half-time when Ferran Torres reacted quickest to a headed pass from Raphinha to poke home the equaliser. Suddenly, the tie was wide open again.

After the break, Inter regained the lead in the 63rd minute through Dumfries, who capped off a sensational performance with a towering header from Hakan Calhanoglu’s corner. But Barcelona’s spirit shone through once more, and just two minutes later, Raphinha unleashed a thunderous strike from distance that ricocheted off the bar, onto Yann Sommer’s back, and into the net.

The frenetic clash showcased Barcelona’s attacking dynamism and never-say-die attitude, but also exposed some defensive vulnerabilities that Hansi Flick will need to address before the second leg in Milan. Still, with Yamal leading the charge and the scoreline finely poised, the Blaugrana remain firmly in the hunt for a place in the final.

Verdict: With everything to play for at the San Siro, this tie is delicately balanced. One thing is certain — if Barcelona can match the energy and flair they showed tonight, their dream of European glory is very much alive.