The UEFA Champions League final matchup is confirmed: Inter will face Paris Saint-Germain on May 31. This clash promises a fascinating battle of contrasting tactical styles. Inter secured their spot in the final at Munich`s Allianz Arena after a dramatic 7-6 aggregate victory over Barcelona in the semifinals. They arrive as one of Europe`s top defensive units, reaching the final for the second time in three seasons. PSG, conversely, developed a highly effective attacking system over the winter months and have been exceptionally difficult to defeat since. They return to the Champions League final for the first time since 2020, and this marks their inaugural season following Kylian Mbappe`s departure.
This year`s final represents a significant moment for both clubs, albeit at different stages of their journeys. For Inter, it might be seen as a potential `last dance` for their current squad composition. For PSG, under Luis Enrique`s distinctive stylistic guidance, it could signal an ideal beginning to a new era. An Inter win would end a 15-year wait for the Champions League title, while victory for PSG would be their historic first.
With the final on May 31 approaching, here are the key aspects to consider.
How to Watch the Champions League Final and Odds
- Date: Saturday, May 31
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Allianz Arena — Munich, Germany
- TV: CBS
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Paris Saint-Germain +105; Draw +240; Inter +270
1. Paris Saint-Germain`s Pressing Game
PSG`s path to the final was notably challenging, navigating a difficult group phase that included matches against Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. This served as a true test for Enrique`s new tactical system. By January, facing City again, their approach began to synchronize effectively. Following the addition of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, PSG appeared virtually unbeatable, progressing through the knockout rounds by eliminating Brest, Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal.
Enrique`s intense pressing scheme has been fundamental to their success. This system allows them to overwhelm opposing defenses during attacking transitions, creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities. It has showcased Kvaratskhelia`s top-tier skills and also elevated the performance of previously less-heralded players. Ousmane Dembele is enjoying a standout season, and Desire Doue, Fabian Ruiz, and Vitinha have been crucial contributors. The rapid transformation from a squad of individual stars into a cohesive team unit has been remarkable and could well be the decisive factor in their quest for the title.
2. Inter`s Defensive Strength
Given PSG`s formidable attack leading them to the final, it`s fitting that they will face a team prioritizing defense, which will aim to neutralize their offensive power. While their 7-6 aggregate victory against Barcelona in the semifinals might seem contradictory, the bedrock of Inter`s journey has been their robust defense. Simone Inzaghi`s side has been among Europe`s premier defensive units, letting in only five goals in 12 matches prior to the semifinals. Even in the high-scoring semifinal tie, goalkeeper Yann Sommer proved vital with 14 saves across both legs, delivering crucial interventions, particularly as Barcelona pressed for a late equalizer.
To appreciate the breadth of Inter`s defensive capability, consider their wingbacks, Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco. This duo exemplifies their multi-faceted defense-first strategy, contributing significantly to initiating attacks. Their impact was particularly evident against Barcelona in the semifinal, where both were involved in creating several goals. Dumfries had a remarkable week, contributing to five goals in total, including scoring twice from set pieces in the first leg.
3. PSG`s Youth vs. Inter`s Experience
Beyond their playing styles, the teams contrast in their recent final experience. Inter`s presence in Munich marks another highlight of the Inzaghi era, notably following their defeat to Manchester City in the 2023 Istanbul final. Six of the players who started the recent semifinal second leg against Barcelona also featured in that 2023 final. This iteration of PSG, however, is significantly different from the team that lost the Champions League final to Bayern Munich in Lisbon five years ago. Only one starter from their recent semifinal second leg against Arsenal, Marquinhos, was part of that previous final squad. The current PSG team relies heavily on young French talent such as Doue and Bradley Barcola. These young players have risen to the challenge effectively in the knockout stages so far, but a crucial question remains: can they maintain their composure in potentially the most important match of their careers, particularly when facing an Inter squad that has experienced the pressure of a Champions League final before?
Benedict Kingsley