What curse did FC Barcelona break by returning to a Champions League semi-final?

Six years on from their last appearance in the final four, the Catalan side are back among Europe’s elite. The shadow of Anfield still lingers, but this time the story might be different.

FC Barcelona have taken a massive step forward. After years of setbacks, rebuilds and European heartbreaks, the Catalans have finally made it back to the semi-finals of the Champions League. Their last appearance came in the 2018/19 season – a campaign that ended with a devastating collapse at Anfield, where Liverpool overturned a 3-0 deficit with an unforgettable 4-0. That night left a scar that never quite faded.

This time, though, the narrative has shifted. Barcelona knocked out Borussia Dortmund with a 5-3 aggregate score: a dominant 4-0 win at home followed by a nervy 3-1 loss in Germany. It was far from flawless, but it was enough. And more importantly, it was symbolic – the club is back where its legacy demands.

Since that collapse in 2019, Barcelona have suffered some of their darkest nights in Europe: the infamous 8-2 against Bayern, exits at the hands of PSG and Juventus, and group-stage eliminations that once seemed unthinkable. But under new manager Hansi Flick, the team is starting to show signs of revival. Young stars like Lamine Yamal are emerging, while experienced leaders like Ter Stegen continue to hold the line.

Now, with a place at Wembley within touching distance, Barca await a heavyweight opponent in the semis: Bayern Munich or Inter Milan. Either way, history will play a role. And Barca know this – redemption does not come easy.

A shot at redemption?

After years in the shadows, Barcelona are finally back at the business end of the Champions League. Reaching the semi-finals is more than just progress – it is a statement. If they face Bayern, the memories of past humiliation will be front and centre. If it is Inter, it will be a battle of tactical wit and resilience. One thing is certain: Barcelona are alive again… and chasing their sixth European crown.