Barcelona's star striker Robert Lewandowski will start from the bench for their decisive Champions League semi-final clash against Inter Milan, coach Hansi Flick confirmed on Monday.

The Poland captain, who has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained in last month’s match against Celta Vigo, missed the first leg at the Camp Nou but is set to be available as a substitute at the San Siro. The tie is delicately poised at 3-3 after a thrilling encounter in Catalonia.

"Everything is going in the right direction, and he is much better than expected. He’s ready to be on the bench, so when we need him, he can come on," Flick told reporters ahead of the match.

Lewandowski’s return is a major boost for Barcelona, as the veteran forward has netted 40 goals across all competitions this season. With a win at the San Siro, Barca will secure a spot in the final.

Flick’s side is also chasing an unprecedented quadruple in his first season at the helm, having already won both the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey by overcoming Real Madrid. They currently sit four points clear of Madrid at the top of La Liga, with just four games remaining.

Dani Olmo spoke confidently about their ambitions, saying, “I did imagine this (a quadruple bid). I want to win everything. At Barca, we have the squad to be at this stage with all the trophies still in play. We know what we need to do, and we are committed to our style of play. We’re full of energy and motivation, and we’ll go for it.”

Olmo also addressed Inter’s plans to double-team Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who caused havoc in the first leg, scoring a stunning goal and hitting the woodwork twice. Inter coach Simone Inzaghi has promised “special attention” to the 17-year-old in the second leg.

“Double-teaming him will only create space for someone else,” Olmo said. “Lamine has shown that he can take on one, two, or even three defenders. If they focus on him, it opens up opportunities for the rest of us, and we will adapt accordingly.”

The winner of this high-stakes encounter will face either Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final in Munich later this month.


By WafricNews Sport Desk.