The UEFA Champions League final is confirmed, pitting Inter Milan against Paris Saint-Germain on May 31st in a clash of contrasting tactical approaches. Inter secured their spot in Munich after a thrilling 7-6 aggregate victory over Barcelona and arrive as one of Europe`s top defensive units, reaching the final for the second time in three years. Meanwhile, PSG developed a dominant attacking approach during the winter and have been incredibly difficult to overcome since, making their first final appearance since 2020, notably in their inaugural season post-Kylian Mbappe`s departure.
This season`s Champions League final represents a potential pinnacle for two clubs at distinct stages of ambitious projects. For Inter, it could mark a concluding chapter for their current squad, while for PSG, it might signal a perfect beginning in the first year under Luis Enrique`s unique tactical vision. A victory would be Inter`s first Champions League triumph in 15 years and PSG`s historic first.
As the final match approaches on May 31st, here are the key storylines and tactical battles to observe.
How to watch the Champions League final, odds
- Date: Saturday, May 31
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Allianz Arena — Munich, Germany
- Odds: Paris Saint-Germain +105; Draw +240; Inter +270
1. Paris Saint-Germain`s press
PSG`s journey to the final has been distinct, initially navigating a challenging new league phase draw that included facing Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. This served as a significant test for Enrique`s new methodology, but the team began finding its rhythm by the time they played City in January. The addition of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia made them virtually unstoppable, leading to knockout stage victories over Brest, Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal.
Enrique`s pressing system has been the cornerstone of their success. It allows successful attacking plays to overload the opposition defense, creating numerous options in front of goal. This system has showcased Kvaratskhelia`s elite abilities and brought out the best in several less-heralded players. Ousmane Dembele has enjoyed a standout season, while Desire Doue, Fabian Ruiz, and Vitinha have also been crucial contributors. Their rapid transformation from a collection of individual stars into a cohesive team has been surprisingly quick and could well be the decisive factor in their pursuit of the title.
2. Inter`s defensive resolve
Given PSG`s formidable attack, it`s fitting they face a defense-oriented Inter side in Munich, presenting the ultimate test for their offensive power. Although their thrilling 7-6 aggregate semifinal win over Barcelona might imply otherwise, the bedrock of Inter`s Champions League journey has been their robust defense. Simone Inzaghi`s squad has performed as one of Europe`s top defensive units, allowing just five goals in 12 matches prior to the semifinals. Even in the high-scoring semifinal ties, goalkeeper Yann Sommer proved vital with 14 saves across both legs, delivering crucial interventions, particularly as Barcelona desperately sought a late equalizer.
Extending the perspective on Inter`s defensive strength, their wingbacks, Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco, stand out. They exemplify the multifunctional nature of Inter`s defense-first approach, playing a key role in initiating attacks. This was especially evident in the semifinal against Barcelona, where both contributed to creating several goals. Dumfries, in particular, had an exceptional week, involved in five goals overall, including scoring two from set pieces in the first leg.
3. PSG`s youth, Inter`s experience
Beyond tactical styles, the finalists offer a contrast in experience levels. Inter`s upcoming match in Munich continues the journey under Simone Inzaghi, which notably includes their defeat in the 2023 final against Manchester City. Six players who started Tuesday`s second leg against Barcelona were part of the squad that lost the 2023 final. This version of PSG is significantly different from the team that lost the Champions League final to Bayern Munich in Lisbon five years ago (referencing the 2020 final). Only one starter from Wednesday`s second leg against Arsenal, Marquinhos, was part of that 2020 team. The current PSG squad is built around young French talents like Doue and Bradley Barcola. These young players have appeared ready for the challenge throughout the knockout stages, but the crucial question is whether they can maintain composure in potentially the most significant match of their careers, especially facing an Inter side that has previously experienced the pressure of a final.
