Federico Dimarco’s Crunching Tackle on Lamine Yamal Sparks Buzz in UCL Clash
- The Italian defender came fully prepared to handle the pacy FC Barcelona winger in the crucial Inter vs Barca CL showdown
- 17-year-old Lamine Yamal dominated the pre-match discussions, with coaches and opponents hailing his talent
- Dimarco delighted the San Siro Inter Milan faithful with his perfect tackle to stop Yamal in just the opening minutes
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Football fans are already buzzing over a fiery start to the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg between Inter Milan and Barcelona at the San Siro.
Just under three minutes into the game, Inter wingback Federico Di Marco launched into a hard tackle on Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Source: Getty Images
A Tackle on Lamine Yamal That Set the Tone
The match began with intensity, but Dimarco’s challenge on Yamal raised the stakes almost immediately as Inter seeks to defy Opta's Supercomputer predictions in this year's UCL final.
As Yamal surged down the right flank, showing his trademark pace and close control, Dimarco stepped across and delivered a crunching tackle to halt the 17-year-old’s progress.
The crowd roared in approval, but the tackle also left Barcelona players protesting to the referee, demanding a card.
Although the Italian defender escaped with just a verbal warning, the challenge set an early tone, signaling that Inter were prepared to use physicality to disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm.
Yamal Feels the Heat
Lamine Yamal, hailed as one of Europe’s brightest young talents, has been instrumental for Barcelona this season, breaking into the first team and dazzling with his dribbling.
His reputation clearly hasn’t gone unnoticed, and Di Marco’s aggressive approach appeared to be part of Inter’s strategy to unsettle the youngster.
Despite the heavy challenge, Yamal quickly dusted himself off and continued playing, showing resilience that has endeared him to Barcelona supporters and football neutrals alike.
Fans React on Social Media
Within minutes of the tackle, clips of the incident flooded social media, with fans divided over Di Marco’s intent.
Some praised the Italian fullback for showing old-school defensive grit in a high-stakes match, while others condemned the challenge as reckless, especially given Yamal’s age and vulnerability.
Source: Getty Images
Inter vs Barcelona Tactical Battle Unfolding
Tactically, Dimarco’s early tackle was more than just a statement of intent; it reflected Inter manager Simone Inzaghi’s plan to keep Barcelona’s wide players under constant pressure.
With Yamal and Raphinha key to Barcelona’s attacking blueprint, Inter’s fullbacks have been tasked with limiting their influence.
Meanwhile, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick will be eager to ensure his young winger doesn’t get drawn into emotional battles on the pitch and remains focused on creating chances.
What’s at Stake in Inter Milan vs Barcelona?
With the aggregate score locked at 3-3, the San Siro clash promises to be a thriller as both teams are vying for a place in the final.
Arsenal fans pray for Partey's side for PSG game
YEN.com.gh earlier reported the viral prayer session of a group of Arsenal supporters in Sierra Leone ahead of the critical PSG vs Arsenal UEFA Champions League semis second leg.
The French giants secured a 1-0 away win during the 1st leg at Emirates Stadium, and Mikel Arteta's Gunners would need to punch above their weight to qualify.
Source: YEN.com.gh
