Paris Saint-Germain wasted no time asserting dominance in the Champions League final, establishing a commanding two-goal lead within the initial 20 minutes. Achraf Hakimi and Desire Doue were the beneficiaries, capitalizing on notable defensive vulnerabilities shown by Inter Milan.
The opening goal exemplified PSG`s attacking flair. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia initiated the move from the left flank, driving purposefully into the penalty area. The sequence involved crisp passing from Fabian Ruiz to Vitinha, who then slipped the ball through to Desire Doue in a dangerous position. Doue demonstrated composure, rolling a precise pass across the face of the goal for Achraf Hakimi to easily finish into an unguarded net. This marked Hakimi`s fourth goal of the season, including vital strikes earlier in the knockout rounds. The Moroccan international chose not to celebrate against his former club. This historic first goal for PSG in a Champions League final was a just reward for their aggressive, high-intensity start to the match.
PSG`s second goal showcased the fluidity of their forward line. Ousmane Dembele spearheaded a swift counter-attack down the left side. The ball eventually found its way to the excellent Doue, whose powerful shot took a decisive deflection, leaving Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer helpless.
Inter, and particularly defender Federico Dimarco, will undoubtedly scrutinize their defensive performance on both occasions. For Hakimi`s opener, the Italy international was caught out of position, drifting behind the defensive line while tracking Hakimi`s run, inadvertently playing him onside. Regarding Doue`s second goal, while the shot itself was difficult to stop, Dimarco`s decision to turn his back proved costly, providing the crucial deflection that sealed PSG`s two-goal cushion. It`s a moment he may reflect on for a long time, pondering if a different reaction could have altered the ball`s trajectory.
Dominic Ashworth