The upcoming UEFA Champions League final pits Inter against Paris Saint-Germain, a fascinating clash featuring PSG as an unexpected challenger for the prestigious European title.
Many were surprised by PSG`s deep run this season, especially following Kylian Mbappe`s exit. Coach Luis Enrique embarked on a gradual rebuilding strategy, incorporating promising young French players alongside experienced veterans. Initial results in the group stage were inconsistent; defeats against strong opponents like Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, and Bayern Munich suggested the team was still a work in progress rather than a potential finalist.
However, performance improved significantly during the winter period. The arrival of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and the squad`s successful adaptation to Enrique`s new tactical approach were key factors. PSG developed into a dynamic European side, known for their distinctive high pressing game that fueled their offensive strategy. Their victory against English champions Liverpool in the Round of 16 marked a crucial early statement, followed by further strong displays that ultimately secured their place in the Champions League final, their first appearance in five years.
As the final approaches, let`s review PSG`s journey to the Allianz Arena in Munich.
The Group Stage Journey
PSG`s Champions League campaign began with a lackluster 1-0 victory against Girona, secured only by a late own goal despite numerous shots. The team then struggled, failing to win their subsequent four matches, with losses to Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, and Bayern Munich, plus a draw against PSV. This left them with a mere four points after five games, sitting precariously low and just one point outside the qualification spots.
Qualification was far from guaranteed heading into the final group matches. A comfortable 3-0 win over Red Bull Salzburg in December provided some relief, but their fate largely depended on their January clash with reigning champions Manchester City. Despite trailing 2-0 early in the second half, PSG staged a remarkable comeback, scoring four goals to clinch a significant victory. This was followed by a decisive 4-1 win away at Stuttgart the following week, ensuring Enrique`s squad finished well within the required positions, ultimately securing 15th place.
Progression Through the Knockouts
In the knockout stage playoffs, PSG faced domestic opponents Brest. This phase provided a strong reset after their uneven group performance. PSG dominated the tie comprehensively, winning 10-0 on aggregate against a Brest side that had been a surprise package earlier. Ousmane Dembele and Vitinha both scored braces, while Kvaratskhelia netted his first European goal for PSG.
Following the straightforward win over Brest, PSG faced a much tougher challenge in the Round of 16 against a strong Liverpool side. Although PSG narrowly lost the first leg 1-0 at home, they arguably played better, carrying that performance into the second leg at Anfield. Ousmane Dembele quickly equalized the aggregate score just 12 minutes in. The match remained tightly contested, ultimately going to a penalty shootout, which PSG won 4-1.
The quarterfinals saw PSG drawn against Aston Villa, managed by their former coach Unai Emery. Villa were enjoying a significant Champions League run, their first in forty years. PSG established a solid 3-1 lead in the home first leg and extended their advantage to 5-1 early in the second leg at Villa Park. Villa mounted a spirited late effort, scoring three goals, but PSG ultimately held on for a thrilling 5-4 aggregate victory.
In the semi-finals, PSG encountered another English opponent: Arsenal, who had recently knocked out Real Madrid. Arsenal struggled to handle PSG`s pressing game. PSG took an early lead at the Emirates Stadium, with Dembele scoring in the fourth minute of the first leg. Arsenal pushed for an equalizer throughout the tie, but PSG`s defense, anchored by strong goalkeeping from Gianluigi Donnarumma and aided by Arsenal`s missed opportunities, remained resilient. PSG secured a 2-1 victory in the home second leg, comfortably sealing their place in the final.
Dominic Ashworth