The UEFA Champions League final is set to take place on May 31, featuring a clash of tactical styles between Inter and Paris Saint-Germain. Inter secured their spot in Munich`s Allianz Arena by defeating Barcelona 7-6 on aggregate in a thrilling semifinal. They enter the final as one of Europe`s top defensive teams, reaching this showcase match for the second time in three seasons. PSG, on the other hand, perfected an attack-minded system over the winter and have been formidable since, returning to the final for the first time since 2020, notably in their first season without Kylian Mbappe.
This season`s Champions League final represents a pivotal moment for two clubs at different stages of their ambitious projects. For Inter, it might be seen as a culmination for the current squad, aiming for their first Champions League title in 15 years. For PSG, it`s a potential dream start under Luis Enrique`s new tactical direction, seeking their first-ever title in this competition.
With the May 31 final approaching, here are some key factors to consider for the Champions League final.
How to watch the Champions League final, 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
Paris Saint-Germain`s press
PSG`s path to the final has been challenging. They navigated a tough group stage, facing opponents like Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. This was a significant test for Enrique`s new tactical system, but things started to click by January. The addition of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia made them almost unstoppable, as they eliminated Brest, Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal in the knockout rounds.
Enrique`s high pressing system has been crucial to their success. This system allows them to overload defenses and create numerous attacking options. It has highlighted Kvaratskhelia`s elite skills and also brought the best out of several players, including a career-best season for Ousmane Dembele and key contributions from Desire Doue, Fabian Ruiz, and Vitinha. Their rapid transformation from individual stars to a cohesive team unit could be the deciding factor in them potentially going all the way.
Inter`s defensive resolve
Given PSG`s formidable attack, it`s fitting they face a defense-oriented team in Munich tasked with neutralizing their offensive power. While their high-scoring 7-6 aggregate win over Barcelona in the semifinals might suggest otherwise, Inter`s journey to the final has been built on a solid defense. Simone Inzaghi`s side has been one of Europe`s best defensively, conceding only five goals in 12 matches leading up to the semifinals. Even in the semifinal thrillers, goalkeeper Yann Sommer was pivotal, making 14 saves across the two legs, particularly crucial as Barcelona pushed for a late equalizer.
Inter`s defensive strength extends to their wingbacks, Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco. They exemplify the multifunctional nature of Inter`s approach, contributing significantly to building attacks. This was evident against Barcelona, where both contributed to several goals, with Dumfries having a remarkable performance including two goals from set pieces.
PSG`s youth, Inter`s experience
Beyond tactics, there`s also a contrast in team experience between the finalists. Inter`s return to the final marks another significant moment in the Inzaghi era, following their loss in the 2023 final to Manchester City. Six starters from the semifinal second leg against Barcelona were also in the squad for the 2023 final. In contrast, this PSG squad is significantly different from the one that lost the 2020 final to Bayern Munich. Only one starter from their semifinal second leg against Arsenal, Marquinhos, remains from that 2020 side. The current PSG team is anchored by promising French youngsters like Doue and Bradley Barcola. These young players have risen to the challenge throughout the knockout rounds, but the key question is whether they can maintain composure in the biggest match of their careers, facing an Inter side that has experienced this stage recently.
