In a thrilling conclusion to the UEFA Champions League semifinals, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) triumphed over Arsenal with a score of 2-1 on May 7, 2025, securing their place in the final against Inter Milan. This victory marked PSG’s second appearance in the final of Europe’s elite tournament in just five years, following their previous heartbreaks in 2020 and 2024.
PSG’s journey to the final has been nothing short of remarkable. They faced a tough road in the league phase, finishing in 15th place with a record of four wins, one draw, and three losses. However, their performance in the knockout stages has been a different story entirely. The French giants started their knockout campaign with a historic 10-0 aggregate victory over Brest, the second-largest win in Champions League history. They then faced Premier League champions Liverpool, defeating them in a nail-biting penalty shootout, before edging out Aston Villa in a dramatic 5-4 aggregate thriller. Their most recent challenge came against Arsenal, where they showcased a mix of resilience and tactical prowess.
During the semifinal match against Arsenal, PSG initially struggled to maintain possession, facing relentless pressure from the Gunners. However, they quickly adapted, relying on counter-attacking football and the standout performance of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who made several crucial saves. The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Fabian Ruiz scored with a stunning half-volley, capitalizing on a cleared free kick that bounced back into his path. Achraf Hakimi doubled the lead in the 72nd minute with a precise finish, putting PSG up 2-0.
Despite their commanding lead, Arsenal fought back, with Bukayo Saka pulling one back late in the game. However, PSG's defense held firm, and they advanced with a 3-1 aggregate score. After the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his disappointment, stating, "The feedback straightaway from their bench is that we were much better than them. When you look at the two games, the best player on the pitch has been their goalkeeper. He has made a difference for them in the tie." Arteta praised his team’s effort but acknowledged the missed opportunities that could have changed the outcome.
On the other side of the bracket, Inter Milan secured their place in the final by defeating Barcelona in a thrilling semifinal that ended 7-6 on aggregate. This matchup with PSG will be historic, as it marks the first time these two teams have faced each other in a competitive setting. Inter Milan, who previously lifted the Champions League trophy in 1964, 1965, and 2010, are looking to add another title to their storied history.
Inter Milan had a strong showing in the league phase, finishing fourth with six wins out of eight matches. Their knockout journey began with a convincing 4-1 aggregate victory over Feyenoord in the Round of 16. The quarterfinals saw them face German champions Bayern Munich, where they pulled off a surprising upset. The semifinals against Barcelona were nothing short of spectacular, featuring a total of 13 goals across two legs, tying the record for the most goals in a Champions League semifinal.
As the countdown to the final begins, both teams are preparing for what promises to be an unforgettable match at the Allianz Arena in Munich on May 31, 2025. At DraftKings Sportsbook, PSG is currently favored at +120, while Inter Milan stands at +225. There are also odds of +230 that the match may require extra time and potentially a penalty shootout to determine the champion.
For PSG, this final represents a chance to finally lift the coveted trophy that has eluded them for so long. Having previously lost to Bayern Munich in 2020 and Borussia Dortmund in the semifinals last year, the stakes are incredibly high. They will be looking to capitalize on their recent successes in the domestic league, where they have also claimed the Ligue 1 title this season.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan, with their rich history and experience in the competition, will aim to reclaim their status as European champions. The matchup is set to be a tactical battle between PSG’s explosive counter-attacking style and Inter’s disciplined defense.
As both teams gear up for the showdown, fans and pundits alike are eagerly anticipating what could be a classic encounter in the annals of Champions League history. Both clubs have shown incredible resilience and skill throughout the tournament, and with the trophy on the line, the players will undoubtedly leave everything on the pitch. Will PSG finally achieve their long-awaited dream, or will Inter Milan add another chapter to their illustrious legacy? Only time will tell as the football world turns its eyes to Munich.
