Despite declaring Ousmane Dembele fit, PSG coach Luis Enrique opted not to start him in the second leg of the Champions League semifinal. Clearly, the boss had confidence in his squad to get the job done at home in Parc des Princes.
On Wednesday (7 may) night, PSG delivered a confident 2-1 victory in the second leg, sealing their place in the Champions League final with a 3-1 win on aggregate.
PSG had already gained an advantage in the semifinal by winning the first leg 1-0 at Arsenal’s home ground. A draw or even a narrow loss could have been enough in the return leg. However, Arsenal came out attacking from the start. Despite creating several chances in the first half, they fell behind in the 27th minute when PSG’s Spanish midfielder Fabián Ruiz scored with a stunning volley.
In the second half, Ousmane Dembele entered the pitch in the 70th minute. Just two minutes later, Achraf Hakimi doubled the lead, effectively securing PSG’s place in the final by taking a 3-0 aggregate advantage. Four minutes later, Bukayo Saka pulled one back for Arsenal, but it only reduced the margin of defeat.
PSG will now face Italian giants Inter Milan in the Champions League final. The match is set to be played in Munich on the night of June 1.
UA / TDS
