In an exhilarating showdown at the Parc des Princes, Paris Saint-Germain secured their place in the Champions League final by defeating Arsenal in the second leg of the semi-final on May 7, 2025. The match was a testament to the tactical prowess of PSG coach Luis Enrique, who praised his team’s resilience and strategic execution against a formidable opponent.
Following the match, Enrique reflected on the unique nature of the game, stating, “It was a strange game that we played tonight. Probably the most different in the entire season, not only in the Champions League. They tried to play with set pieces; they are very strong in that part of the game. We suffered, but we defended well together.” His comments highlighted the challenges posed by Arsenal, who consistently threatened with set pieces throughout the match.
PSG’s first goal came on a swift counterattack, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opportunities. Enrique noted, “We managed to score the first goal on the counterattack; we could have even scored another one.” The victory not only secured their advancement to the final but also underscored the strength of their home crowd, with Enrique adding, “We demonstrated to everyone that with our fans, we are stronger.”
One of the standout performers for PSG was goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who made several crucial saves. Enrique lauded Donnarumma’s performance, saying, “He was fantastic, incredible, just like in the first leg. Our team is built to attack and defend far from our goal, but when we have to defend, it is important to have a goalkeeper like him.” Donnarumma’s contributions were pivotal in keeping Arsenal at bay, particularly during set-piece situations.
Looking ahead to the final, which will pit PSG against Inter Milan, Enrique expressed the ambition of his squad: “We have the objective of writing history. And to do that, you need to win the Champions League.” He acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead, noting, “It will be tough because there is another team with the same objective.”
Achraf Hakimi also played a key role in the semi-final, scoring the second goal that solidified PSG’s lead. After the match, he shared his excitement about facing Inter in the final, saying, “It’s incredible; we have worked so hard for this moment, and we are very happy. We are a family and a fantastic group; we deserve all this. Thank you to all of Paris.” Hakimi emphasized the motivation that comes with facing his former club, stating, “For me, it will be a special final against Inter.”
Another PSG player, Kvara, echoed Hakimi’s sentiments, expressing respect for Inter as one of the best teams in the world. “I am very happy because we are in the final, and for me, it was a dream: it all happened so quickly. It will be a difficult match against Inter, who deserve to be in the final, but so do we, and we deserve to win the Champions League,” he said.
Donnarumma, reflecting on the emotional significance of the final, revealed his excitement about reuniting with former national teammates. “I am excited; we are going back to play a nice final: it will be nice to meet my former teammates,” he said. The goalkeeper also discussed the changes within the team following the departure of star player Kylian Mbappé. “The spirit has changed; we are much more of a team now, playing for each other. We miss Kylian; he is one of the best in the world, but I wish him the best because he is a great friend.”
As PSG gears up for this monumental clash against Inter, the atmosphere around the club is one of unity and determination. Donnarumma, who has one year left on his contract, indicated that discussions about renewal can wait, stating, “There is time to talk about the renewal. The choice is all up to the club; there’s just a signature needed.”
With the final approaching, PSG is focused on their goal of securing the coveted Champions League trophy. The clash against Inter promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams aim to etch their names in history. As the anticipation builds, fans can expect a fierce battle on the pitch as PSG strives to fulfill their ambition of becoming champions.
