Paris Saint-Germain clinched their place in the UEFA Champions League final with a 2-1 victory over Arsenal on the night and a 3-1 aggregate win, thanks to decisive goals from Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi. The result ends Arsenal’s European campaign and sets up a mouthwatering final clash against Inter Milan in Munich.
Fast Start from Arsenal in Familiar Territory
Returning to the Stade de France, the scene of their lone Champions League final appearance in 2006, Arsenal faced the daunting task of overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit. Mikel Arteta’s men started with intensity and purpose, applying relentless pressure from the opening whistle.
Declan Rice was the first to threaten, heading narrowly wide from a Jurrien Timber cross. That chance sparked a frantic spell during which PSG’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was called into action to deny Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Martinelli with two superb saves.
Ruiz Opens the Scoring Against the Run of Play
Despite Arsenal’s dominance in the early exchanges, PSG reminded the visitors of their attacking danger when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia struck the post on a rare counterattack. Moments later, Rice was booked for a foul on Kvaratskhelia, leading to a free-kick that proved costly for the Gunners.
Fabian Ruiz broke the deadlock midway through the first half. After a weak clearance from Thomas Partey, the Spanish midfielder controlled the ball with his chest and unleashed a shot from the edge of the area. A slight deflection off William Saliba wrong-footed David Raya and put PSG 1-0 ahead on the night.
Controversial Penalty, Hakimi Strikes Again
PSG emerged stronger after the interval and were controversially awarded a penalty when Hakimi’s shot clipped the outstretched hand of Myles Lewis-Skelly. Though there were minimal appeals from the home side, VAR intervened and awarded the spot-kick. Fortunately for Arsenal, David Raya guessed correctly to save Vitinha’s tame effort, keeping their hopes alive.
However, the reprieve was short-lived. Just minutes later, Hakimi cut inside and curled a beautiful finish past Raya to double PSG’s lead. Arsenal responded valiantly, with Bukayo Saka finally beating Donnarumma after rounding the keeper to give his side a glimmer of hope.
Missed Chances Seal Arsenal’s Fate
The England winger nearly leveled the tie on the night but squandered a golden opportunity from close range, sending the ball over the bar with the goal at his mercy. It was a moment that encapsulated Arsenal’s frustration across both legs.
Gianluigi Donnarumma was undoubtedly PSG’s standout performer over the two legs, producing key saves to deny Ødegaard and others, earning praise as the defining figure in the tie.
Arteta Reflects on a Painful Exit
Despite the disappointment, Arteta remained proud of his squad, reflecting on their performance with admiration:
“We should’ve been 3-0 up in the first 20 minutes. We deserved much more, but these competitions often come down to key moments in both boxes.”
He also highlighted the impact of injuries and scheduling, pointing out PSG had more rest and a healthier squad:
“You have to get here with everyone fit and available… we came here in a different context.”
Enrique’s PSG March Toward History
Luis Enrique, who has guided a youthful PSG side to their second-ever Champions League final, couldn’t resist a tongue-in-cheek response to critics:
“We’re from the ‘farmers’ league, right? But now, we’re in the final. I’m proud of the mentality and character my players have shown.”
With the Ligue 1 title secured and a French Cup final ahead, PSG remain on track for a historic treble.
What’s Next?
- Arsenal face Liverpool in a crucial Premier League clash this Sunday at Anfield.
- PSG prepare for the Champions League final on May 31, where they’ll face Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
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