The UEFA Champions League, UCL, 2024/2025 season has delivered yet another thrilling semi-final. On May 7, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) overcame Arsenal 2-1 at the Parc des Princes, sealing a 3-1 aggregate win to reach the final. It was a night of high tension, missed chances, and defining moments that set the stage for a massive final clash against Inter Milan in Munich.
Paris Saint-Germain booked their place in the Champions League final for the second time in club history after defeating Arsenal 2-1 in the second leg of their semi-final clash. Holding a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg in London, PSG returned to Paris with confidence—and delivered a composed, calculated performance.
Despite Arsenal’s early dominance, the French champions struck first through Fabián Ruiz, whose long-range effort deflected past David Raya, putting PSG 1-0 up on the night and 2-0 on aggregate. Achraf Hakimi doubled their lead after the break with a well-timed run and finish after a sweeping counterattack.
Arsenal, to their credit, never gave up. Bukayo Saka pulled one back in the 75th minute, rekindling hope for a comeback. However, the Gunners failed to convert their pressure into goals. Missed chances from Gabriel Jesus and Martin Ødegaard, combined with heroic saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma, ensured PSG’s progression.
Key Performers
- Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG) – Outstanding in goal with multiple crucial saves, especially in the first half.
- Fabián Ruiz (PSG) – Controlled midfield and opened the scoring with a fortunate, but vital, strike.
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) – Arsenal’s most dangerous outlet, took his goal well and was a constant threat on the right.
- Achraf Hakimi (PSG) – Balanced defensive work with attacking precision; scored PSG’s second goal with confidence.
Tactical Breakdown
- PSG played a compact 4-3-3, prioritizing control and transitions. Their ability to absorb pressure and exploit space on the counter proved decisive.
- Arsenal lined up in their usual 4-3-3 with Thomas Partey at the base of midfield. While they dominated possession, they lacked the final touch, and key errors (notably from Partey and Zinchenko) undermined their efforts.
Arsenal’s Exit: What Went Wrong
- Inefficiency in front of goal: Despite having more attempts (14 to PSG’s 9), Arsenal lacked composure in the box.
- Defensive lapses: Two preventable goals cost them dearly, especially as they had PSG under real pressure in spells.
- Lack of experience: PSG looked calm under pressure, while Arsenal appeared rushed in critical moments—experience told.
UCL Final Preview: PSG vs Inter Milan
Date: May 31, 2025
Venue: Allianz Arena, Munich
Finalists: Paris Saint-Germain vs Inter Milan
How They Got Here
- Inter Milan: Edged past Barcelona in a thrilling 4-3 win after extra time. Goals from Frattesi, Lautaro Martínez, and Çalhanoğlu highlighted their resilience and depth.
- PSG: Overcame Barcelona in the quarterfinals and then Arsenal in the semis, combining defensive stability with high-tempo counterattacks.
Team Comparison
| Category | PSG | Inter Milan |
|---|---|---|
| Coach | Luis Enrique | Simone Inzaghi |
| Formation | 4-3-3 | 3-5-2 |
| Key Strength | Counterattack, individual brilliance | Tactical discipline, midfield control |
| Weakness | Vulnerable under sustained pressure | Occasional lack of pace at the back |
Key Battles to Watch
- Lautaro Martínez vs Marquinhos: The Inter striker has been lethal this season. Marquinhos must be at his best to contain him.
- Donnarumma vs Sommer: Two experienced goalkeepers in top form—this could come down to who makes the biggest save.
- Midfield Engine: Vitinha & Fabián Ruiz vs Barella & Çalhanoğlu: This will likely decide who controls the tempo.
X-Factors
- PSG: Ousmane Dembélé’s pace and unpredictability could stretch Inter’s backline.
- Inter: Nicolò Barella’s box-to-box energy and Frattesi’s ability to find space late in games can break PSG’s shape.
Prediction: Who Will Win the 2024/2025 UCL Final?
Both clubs bring compelling narratives:
- PSG seek their first-ever UCL trophy after years of close calls. They have the momentum, a deep squad, and a renewed tactical identity under Luis Enrique.
- Inter Milan are seasoned finalists, having won the competition three times. Their mix of tactical cohesion, work rate, and clutch performers makes them incredibly difficult to break down.
Prediction:
Inter Milan 2 – 1 PSG (AET)
Inter’s tactical maturity and physical edge might just edge out PSG’s brilliance in a tense, evenly matched final.
