In a thrilling encounter at the Parc des Princes, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured their place in the Champions League final by defeating Arsenal 2-1 in the second leg of their semi-final clash on May 7, 2025. This victory marked a significant achievement for PSG, as they advanced with a 3-1 aggregate score, setting up a showdown against Inter Milan in Munich on May 31.
PSG entered the match with a slender advantage after winning the first leg 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to a goal from Ousmane Dembélé. However, the stakes were high for Arsenal, who needed to overturn the deficit to reach their first Champions League final since 2006. The Gunners came out with intent, putting PSG under pressure right from the start.
In the opening minutes, Arsenal’s Declan Rice nearly put his team ahead, heading a dangerous cross that skimmed past Gianluigi Donnarumma’s post. Just moments later, Donnarumma showcased his reflexes by saving a powerful shot from Rice, keeping the score level. The early onslaught from Arsenal was relentless, with Donnarumma making yet another impressive save from Martin Ødegaard.
Despite the early pressure, PSG gradually found their footing. Their first real chance came when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia hit the post with a curling effort from the left side of the box in the 17th minute. This near miss seemed to awaken the home side, and they began to dominate possession.
Finally, the breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring. After a defensive error from Arsenal, Ruiz received the ball just outside the area and unleashed a powerful left-footed volley that beat Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. The Parc des Princes erupted in celebration as PSG took a 1-0 lead.
As the first half progressed, PSG looked more comfortable, but they missed a golden opportunity to double their advantage when Barcola squandered a clear chance shortly after Ruiz's goal. The first half ended with PSG leading 1-0, giving them a crucial aggregate advantage.
After the break, Arsenal continued to push for an equalizer, but PSG’s defense held firm, with Donnarumma making several key saves. However, the tide turned when PSG was awarded a penalty in the 69th minute after a handball by Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly. Vitinha stepped up to take the spot-kick but failed to convert, as Raya saved his weak effort.
Just three minutes later, PSG made Arsenal pay for the missed penalty. Ousmane Dembélé, who had started the match on the bench due to a thigh injury, was brought on and quickly made an impact. Dembélé combined beautifully with Achraf Hakimi, who then slotted the ball home to extend PSG’s lead to 2-0 in the 72nd minute.
With the aggregate score now at 3-0, it seemed that PSG was well on their way to the final. However, Arsenal refused to go down without a fight. In the 76th minute, Bukayo Saka reduced the deficit, scoring from close range after a defensive lapse from PSG. The goal gave Arsenal a glimmer of hope, making the score 2-1 on the night and 3-1 on aggregate.
Despite the setback, PSG maintained their composure and continued to create chances. Dembélé had another opportunity to score but was denied by Raya in the closing stages. As the final whistle blew, PSG celebrated their hard-fought victory, knowing they were heading to their second Champions League final in the club's history.
PSG's coach, Luis Enrique, praised his team's resilience and performance throughout the tie. "We showed great character today, especially after Arsenal’s early pressure. The players responded well, and I’m proud of their efforts," he said. The Spanish manager emphasized the importance of the upcoming final, stating, "We have worked hard to get here, and now we must focus on winning the trophy. Our goal is clear: we want to bring the Champions League title to Paris."
As PSG prepares for the final against Inter Milan, they will be looking to erase the memories of their last final appearance in 2020, where they fell to Bayern Munich. This time, with a squad full of talent and determination, PSG aims to lift their first Champions League trophy and solidify their place among Europe’s elite clubs.
The stage is set for an exciting final in Munich, where PSG will face a formidable Inter Milan side that recently defeated FC Barcelona to secure their spot. Fans from both clubs are eagerly anticipating this clash, which promises to be a thrilling encounter filled with high stakes and unforgettable moments.
With the Champions League trophy within reach, PSG is ready to write the next chapter in their storied history. The countdown to May 31 has begun, and the football world will be watching closely as Paris Saint-Germain aims to make history.
