PSG’s Journey to the Champions League Final
The UEFA Champions League final will showcase two contrasting teams: Inter and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), with PSG unexpectedly emerging as a strong contender for European football’s top honor.
Early Season Struggles
Few expected PSG to achieve this success in their first season after the departure of Kylian Mbappe. Under Luis Enrique, the team focused on rebuilding with a mix of young French talents and experienced players, despite starting the season with lackluster performances, including losses to Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, and Bayern Munich during the league stages.
Turning Point
Things shifted positively during winter when PSG introduced Khvicha Kvaratskhelia into their squad, allowing them to master Enrique’s tactics. They became one of Europe’s most exciting teams known for their unique pressing style and attacking play. Their landmark victory over Liverpool in the round of 16 was a clear indication of their capabilities as they qualified for the Champions League final for the first time in five years.
Path to the Final
As the Champions League final approaches, here’s a detailed look at how PSG reached the prestigious match against Inter:
- Match Date: Saturday, May 31 | Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany
- Broadcast: CBS | Live Stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Paris Saint-Germain +125; Draw +220; Inter +230
League Phase Challenges
PSG opened their Champions League campaign with a lackluster 1-0 win over Girona, thanks to a last-minute own-goal. They struggled in the following four matches but turned the tide with an impressive comeback against Manchester City, showcasing their newfound resilience and determination to progress to the knockout stages.
Knockout Stage Victories
PSG’s performance in the knockout stages solidified their position among Europe’s elite. They convincingly defeated Brest with a 10-0 aggregate before facing a tough challenge from Liverpool. Despite an initial loss at home, they equalized and triumphed in a penalty shootout, demonstrating their growth and resolve. Their quarterfinal match against Aston Villa and subsequent victories solidified their place in the final.
Stay tuned to see how PSG manages to translate this form into a triumph at the Allianz Arena.
