Paris Saint-Germain have secured their place in the UEFA Champions League final after defeating Arsenal 2-1 in the semi-final second leg at home, winning 3-1 on aggregate. Goals from Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi ensured victory, while goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma played a pivotal role with a series of outstanding saves to frustrate the Premier League side.
PSG will now face Inter Milan in the final on May 31 in Munich, five years after their previous appearance in the competition’s showpiece match where they lost to Bayern Munich. Under the leadership of Luis Enrique, the Parisian club has evolved into a well-balanced and resilient team, capable of soaking up pressure and delivering at crucial moments.
Despite Arsenal starting brightly, with early chances from Declan Rice and Gabriel Martinelli, it was PSG who opened the scoring in the 27th minute. Thomas Partey’s defensive error allowed Ruiz to strike a powerful shot past David Raya, giving PSG control of the match. Ruiz’s goal was his first in 46 Champions League appearances, making the moment even more memorable for the Spanish midfielder.
Donnarumma continued to shine with key saves including a brilliant stop from Martin Odegaard. PSG remained composed throughout the second half even after missing a penalty taken by Vitinha in the 69th minute. Hakimi soon made amends by scoring PSG’s second goal with a well-worked one-two alongside substitute Ousmane Dembele.
Arsenal did manage to pull one back through Bukayo Saka in the 76th minute after a deflected cross found its way to him at a tight angle. However, the winger later missed a golden opportunity to level the match, sending a clear-cut chance over the bar as the Gunners’ Champions League journey ended in disappointment.
Arsenal were hoping to reach their first Champions League final since 2006 but were ultimately undone by PSG’s experience, composure and clinical finishing. With momentum on their side and a strong tactical structure, PSG now set their sights on European glory as they prepare to meet Inter Milan in what promises to be a thrilling final.