In a thrilling encounter at the Parc des Princes on May 7, 2025, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) overcame Arsenal 2-1 to secure their place in the UEFA Champions League final. With a 3-1 aggregate victory, the French champions are now set to face Italian giants Inter Milan in Munich on May 31, 2025.
The match started with Arsenal putting PSG under intense pressure, dominating the first half and creating several scoring opportunities. However, it was PSG who struck first, with Fabian Ruiz finding the net in the 27th minute with a stunning left-footed shot that left Arsenal's goalkeeper, David Raya, with no chance. This goal doubled PSG's aggregate lead and shifted the momentum of the match.
Despite the setback, Arsenal continued to fight back, but their efforts were thwarted by PSG's Gianluigi Donnarumma, who made crucial saves to keep his team ahead. The turning point came in the 69th minute when Vitinha was awarded a penalty after a controversial handball by Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly. However, Raya showcased his penalty-saving prowess by denying Vitinha's attempt, keeping Arsenal's hopes alive.
Just moments later, Achraf Hakimi scored a magnificent goal, driving into the box and exchanging a one-two with Ousmane Dembélé before unleashing a quick shot that beat Raya low at the post, extending PSG's lead to 2-0.
Arsenal managed to pull one back in the 76th minute when Bukayo Saka found the net, but it was too little too late. The Gunners, who have not reached the Champions League final since 2006, were left to rue missed opportunities and a lack of finishing in front of goal.
Commenting on the match, former Arsenal defender Martin Keown noted the controversy surrounding the penalty awarded to PSG, stating, "Even PSG fans in the stadium couldn’t believe this decision. It was a very harsh call on a young player on the biggest of stages." Keown highlighted the reaction of the home fans, who were visibly unhappy despite their team being given a penalty.
David Raya's performance in goal has been a standout for Arsenal throughout the Champions League campaign. With a remarkable record of saving 4 out of 9 penalties faced in the competition, he has proven to be a reliable figure during critical moments. In contrast, his domestic record in the Premier League has been less impressive, saving only 1 out of 6 penalties faced.
As PSG prepare for their showdown with Inter Milan in the final, they will be looking to finally lift the Champions League trophy that has eluded them in recent years. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams boasting a wealth of talent and determination to claim European glory.
With the Champions League final on the horizon, PSG's victory over Arsenal marks a significant milestone in their quest for continental success. Fans of the French club will be eagerly anticipating the final, hoping their team can deliver a performance worthy of the occasion.
As for Arsenal, the focus will now shift to regrouping and ensuring they can build on their performance in future competitions. The Gunners will be looking to learn from their mistakes and come back stronger next season, as they continue to strive for success both domestically and in Europe.
