Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni talks Szczesny, Yamal, second leg vs Barcelona – ‘Still 50-50’ | OneFootball

The thrilling 3-3 draw between Barcelona and Inter Milan offered fans not only goals and drama but also several heartwarming and unexpected moments, one of which went largely unnoticed during the match.

Cameras captured several light-hearted exchanges between Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni and Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, with the Italian defender later revealing a shared camaraderie that extends beyond club rivalries.

Bastoni’s conversation with Szczesny

Bastoni, speaking with a smile after the match, recalled a conversation with Szczesny that raised eyebrows: “What did I say to Szczesny? I can’t say it in front of the cameras… just kidding. We’ve always had a good relationship.

“I congratulated him for coming out of retirement. He changed his mind and returned to this beautiful game, and he was right. He’s playing in a magnificent Champions League semi-final now.”

Alessandro Bastoni was seen chatting with Wojciech Szczesny. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

It was a reminder that Szczesny, despite joining Barça this season, remains a deeply respected figure in Italian football, as his years at Juventus and Roma earned him plenty of admiration.

After the match, he was even spotted chatting with one of Inter’s goalkeeping coaches about the goals conceded—a gesture that underlines the mutual respect he enjoys in calcio.

Praising Lamine Yamal

But beyond the light moments, Bastoni also took time to single out the performance of Lamine Yamal, who once again proved why Europe’s elite defences are struggling to contain him.

“Lamine is the best winger in the world,” Bastoni admitted.

“When someone is that good, you just have to say it. We were prepared, we knew what he could do, but there are players who surprise you in ways you simply can’t predict.”

As for the return leg in Milan, Bastoni refused to label either side as favourites. “This is still 50-50. It will be a final in Milan, and with our fans, we believe anything is possible,” he concluded.

Source: SPORT