PSG Reach Champions League Final as Ruiz and Hakimi Sink Arsenal

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured their place in the 2025 UEFA Champions League final with a 2-1 victory over Arsenal in the semi-final second leg at Parc des Princes on May 7, culminating in a 3-1 aggregate win. Goals from Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi propelled the French side past their English opponents, setting up a final clash against Inter Milan scheduled for May 31 at Munich’s Allianz Arena

Arsenal entered the match aiming to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg. They started aggressively, with early chances from Declan Rice and Gabriel Martinelli, but were repeatedly denied by PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who delivered a standout performance throughout the tie .

PSG weathered the initial pressure and took the lead in the 27th minute when Fabian Ruiz capitalized on a loose ball at the edge of the area, striking a left-footed shot that deflected past Arsenal’s goalkeeper David Raya. This goal marked Ruiz’s first in the Champions League and extended PSG’s aggregate advantage .

In the second half, PSG had an opportunity to further their lead when they were awarded a penalty after a handball by Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly. However, Vitinha’s attempt was saved by Raya, keeping Arsenal’s hopes alive. Despite this, PSG doubled their lead in the 72nd minute through Achraf Hakimi, who finished a swift counter-attack initiated by substitute Ousmane Dembele .

Arsenal responded promptly, with Bukayo Saka scoring in the 76th minute following a cross from Leandro Trossard. Saka had a subsequent opportunity to level the match but missed from close range, allowing PSG to maintain their lead and secure the victory .

This triumph marks PSG’s second appearance in a Champions League final, the first being in 2020 when they were defeated by Bayern Munich. Under the guidance of manager Luis Enrique, PSG aims to clinch their inaugural Champions League title. Enrique emphasized the team’s ambition to make history by winning the tournament for the first time .

Arsenal’s exit concludes their European campaign, with their last Champions League final appearance dating back to 2006. Manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the team’s performance, noting that the outcome was influenced by key moments and efficiency in both penalty areas .

The upcoming final between PSG and Inter Milan is set for May 31 at the Allianz Arena in Munich, with kickoff at 21:00 CET. The match will be broadcast live, with coverage available on various platforms including talkSPORT, TNT Sports, and Amazon Prime Video in the UK .