Former Nigerian international Taye Taiwo believes Inter Milan have the edge over Barcelona ahead of their decisive UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg encounter at the San Siro on Tuesday night.
The tie remains finely balanced following a dramatic 3-3 draw in the first leg in Spain, a match that delivered high drama and showcased the attacking strengths of both sides.
With all to play for, Taiwo is backing the Italian giants to make the most of their home advantage, though he cautioned that it will take a disciplined and focused display to get past the Spanish heavyweights.
Speaking to RG, the former Super Eagles left-back acknowledged the size of the task but maintained that Inter have both the experience and defensive resilience to progress.
“For me, they have a great opportunity, but it won’t be easy to play against Barcelona,” Taiwo said.
Taiwo, known for his own powerful presence at the back during his playing days, believes the key for Inter lies in striking early and controlling the tempo from the outset.
“The two teams are currently tied 3-3, so Inter have to be very careful playing at home. If Inter manage to score an early goal on Tuesday, I believe they have the quality to go through thanks to their solid defense.”
Inter head into the clash on the back of a narrow 1-0 win over Verona in domestic action, a result achieved despite resting several first-team regulars in anticipation of the midweek fixture.
Barcelona, meanwhile, required a second-half comeback to see off Valladolid 2-1, keeping their momentum alive ahead of the continental showdown.
Both sides boast rich Champions League pedigrees and are desperate to secure a place in the final. Inter Milan will be banking on the tactical acumen of their coach and the fervent support of their home crowd at the iconic San Siro, while Barcelona, renowned for their attacking flair and individual brilliance, will look to assert control and exploit any gaps in the Inter defence.
Taiwo, who featured in European competitions with clubs across the continent, including Olympique Marseille and AC Milan, stressed the importance of concentration at this stage of the tournament.
“It’s the semi-final of the Champions League—mistakes get punished. Inter have to stay compact and not allow Barcelona too much space.”
The 3-3 scoreline from the first leg means that any narrow win for either side in the second leg would be enough to secure passage to the final.
With both teams displaying attacking intent and defensive vulnerabilities in the opening leg, Tuesday’s fixture promises another thrilling chapter in what has already been an entertaining tie.
As the clock ticks down to kick-off, Taiwo’s message is clear: Inter must strike early, defend smartly, and seize the moment if they are to overcome Barcelona and book their place in the final.
