Bastoni Calls Barcelona's Yamal Best Opponent Ahead of Semifinal

Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni and coach Simone Inzaghi emphasized the importance of containing Barcelona's 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal in their Champions League semifinal second leg, following Yamal's standout performance and historic goal in the 3-3 first-leg draw. Bastoni, who previously faced Yamal at the European Championships, described him as possibly the best player he has ever faced, praising the teenager's rapid progression and extraordinary ability to create danger on the pitch. Both Bastoni and Inzaghi highlighted the need for a coordinated defensive effort, including doubling or even tripling up on Yamal, while warning against overcommitting and leaving space for other Barcelona threats. Yamal's first-leg goal made him the youngest scorer in a Champions League semifinal and added to his growing reputation, with his dribbling and attacking statistics setting records for a teenager in the competition. The thrilling first-leg result has set up a high-stakes and evenly poised second leg at San Siro, with both sides eager to secure a place in the final. Bastoni also underscored the team's collective spirit and the key role of experienced players in facing Barcelona's youthful attack.