The pinnacle of European club football is fast approaching. The UEFA Champions League final for the 2024-25 season is now confirmed after the dramatic conclusion of the semifinals earlier this week. Starting back in July with 81 hopeful teams and featuring the inaugural 36-team league phase, the journey has narrowed down to just two competitors vying for club soccer`s most coveted trophy. Here is essential information regarding the upcoming decisive match:
Who is playing in the Champions League final?
The final will be contested between Italian side Inter Milan and French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Inter secured their spot after a highly dramatic semi-final victory against Barcelona, while PSG progressed by comfortably defeating Arsenal.
Inter Milan boasts a history of success in the competition, having won the title on three previous occasions. Their most recent appearance in the final was just three seasons ago, where they narrowly lost 1-0 to Manchester City. Paris Saint-Germain, conversely, is still seeking its first Champions League title. A win would make them only the second French club to lift the trophy, following Marseille`s success. PSG`s only prior final was in 2020, resulting in a loss to Bayern Munich during the COVID-19 period.
Neither finalist was widely predicted as a strong favorite to win the tournament this season, as recent Champions League titles have primarily been won by clubs from Spain, England, and Germany. No team outside these three nations has claimed the trophy since Inter`s last victory in 2010, and France`s sole win was in 1993.
Despite undergoing squad changes over the years, Inter has maintained competitiveness, notably eliminating formidable opponents like Bayern Munich and Barcelona on their route to the final. Some observers may have considered Inter a potential threat due to their team chemistry and continuous improvement, though many initially favored traditional powerhouses such as Manchester City, Barcelona, or Real Madrid to win the trophy this season.
Paris Saint-Germain has been seen as a strong contender in recent years, featuring global stars like Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, and Lionel Messi. Interestingly, they reached this season`s final having parted ways with these players, including Mbappe`s departure to Real Madrid. Despite this transition, they have made it to the final and are currently considered early favorites by some.
When and where is the Champions League final?
The final is scheduled to be played on Saturday, May 31. The chosen venue is the Allianz Arena, located in Munich, Germany. While most UEFA Champions League matches take place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the final is traditionally held on a Saturday.
What time does it start?
The kick-off time for the final is set for 3:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) on Saturday, May 31.
Where can I watch it?
In the United States, the match will be broadcast on CBS and will also be available for streaming on Paramount+, which is the dedicated platform for Champions League coverage.
