The 2024–2025 UEFA Champions League final between Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will take place on May 31, 2025, at Munich, Germany’s Allianz Arena. With two European heavyweights facing off against one another for the first time in a competitive setting, this historic bout is sure to be one of the most exciting finals in recent memory. Both teams have shown incredible form and tactical skill throughout the competition, setting the stage for a thrilling matchup for the coveted “Orejona” trophy.
The Road to Munich
Inter Milan’s Resilient Journey
Inter Milan, under the stewardship of coach Simone Inzaghi, has navigated a challenging path to reach their second Champions League final in three years. Finishing fourth in the league phase with 19 points, the Nerazzurri demonstrated their knockout-stage prowess by eliminating formidable opponents. They dispatched Feyenoord (4-1 aggregate) in the round of 16, outlasted Bayern Munich (4-3 aggregate) in the quarter-finals, and staged a dramatic comeback against FC Barcelona in the semi-finals. The semi-final tie against Barcelona was a spectacle, with Inter securing a 7-6 aggregate victory after a 4-3 extra-time triumph at San Siro, sealed by goals from Lautaro Martínez, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Francesco Acerbi, and Davide Frattesi.
Inter’s campaign has been defined by a blend of defensive solidity and clinical attacking play. Captain Lautaro Martínez, with nine goals in the tournament, has been the spearhead, supported by the dynamic duo of Mehdi Taremi and Marcus Thuram. Goalkeeper Yann Sommer’s heroics have also been pivotal, ensuring Inter’s backline remains resolute under pressure. The Italian side’s tactical cohesion, built over years under Inzaghi, makes them a formidable force.
PSG’s Redemption Arc
Paris Saint-Germain, led by Luis Enrique, have finally found balance after years of relying on individual brilliance. Finishing 15th in the league phase with 13 points, PSG’s journey through the knockout stages has been nothing short of remarkable. They crushed Stade Brestois 29 (10-0 aggregate) in the play-offs, edged out Liverpool on penalties (4-1) in the round of 16, overcame Aston Villa (5-4 aggregate) in the quarter-finals, and secured a 3-1 aggregate victory over Arsenal in the semi-finals, with Fabián Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi scoring in the decisive 2-1 second-leg win at Parc des Princes.
PSG’s midfield trio of Vitinha, João Neves, and Warren Zaïre-Emery has provided stability, while Ousmane Dembélé’s versatility as a false nine has added unpredictability to their attack. This final marks PSG’s second appearance in the Champions League final, following their 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich in 2020. The Parisians are hungry for their first European crown, and Enrique’s tactical evolution has made them a well-rounded unit.
A Historic Encounter
This final is a historic occasion because PSG and Inter Milan have never played each other in any official competitions. Besides, they have only met in friendlies, one of which Inter won (2-1) in 2023 and the other which PSG triumphed over Inter (3-1) in 2016. Rivalry adds an aspect of suspense due to both teams having no navigational history. For Inter, this is their seventh Champions League final, where they emerged victorious thrice (1964, 1965, 2010), and for PSG, they are in pursuit of their first title.
The Allianz Arena, with a capacity of more than 75,000 spectators, is a more than suitable place to host the match. The famous home of Bayern Munchen has previously hosted the 2012 Champions League final, and now it will host another momentary battle in the Europe’s football history. The game has been set for 21:00 CEST (13:00 CDMX, 15:00 ET) meaning it can be witnessed all over the world.
Tactical Breakdown
Inter Milan: Italian Forcefulness
Simone Inzaghi’s Inter is a well-oiled machine, blending a robust defense with surgical attacking precision. Their backline, anchored by Alessandro Bastoni, has conceded just five goals in 12 Champions League matches this season, while their counter-attacking style has overwhelmed opponents. Lautaro Martínez’s goal-scoring prowess, combined with the creativity of Nicolò Barella and the wing-back runs of Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco, makes Inter a versatile threat. Their experience in high-pressure matches, including the 2023 final loss to Manchester City, gives them an edge in handling the occasion.
PSG: Parisian Dynamism
Luis Enrique has transformed PSG into a cohesive unit that balances possession-based play with high pressing and rapid transitions. Their midfield dominance, led by Vitinha and João Neves, allows them to control games, while Dembélé’s flair and Bradley Barcola’s pace stretch defenses. PSG’s expected goals (xG) tally of 29.7, second only to Bayern Munich, underscores their attacking potency. However, defensive vulnerabilities, exposed by Aston Villa in the quarter-finals, could be a concern against Inter’s lethal forwards.
Key Players to Watch
- Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan): The Argentine striker’s nine goals and leadership make him Inter’s talisman. His ability to score in crucial moments, as seen against Bayern and Barcelona, will be vital.
- Ousmane Dembélé (PSG): The former Barcelona winger’s versatility and flair have been central to PSG’s attack. His familiarity with big stages could prove decisive.
- Yann Sommer (Inter Milan): The Swiss goalkeeper’s shot-stopping ability has been a game-changer for Inter, potentially key in a tight final.
- Vitinha (PSG): The Portuguese midfielder’s composure and passing range will be crucial in dictating the tempo against Inter’s combative midfield.
What’s at Stake?
For Inter Milan, a victory would mark their fourth Champions League title, cementing their status as one of Europe’s elite clubs. It would also cap a remarkable turnaround under Inzaghi and president Steven Zhang, who have rebuilt the club since their 2021 Serie A triumph. For PSG, lifting the trophy would end their long quest for European glorysnippershotgun: glory and fulfill Luis Enrique’s ambition to make PSG a global force. The final represents a chance to shed the “nearly men” tag that has haunted them in Europe.
Predictions and Expectations
Analysts are split on the outcome, with Inter entering as slight favorites due to their experience and cohesion. Their proven goal-scorers and defensive solidity give them a tactical edge, but PSG’s attacking flair and midfield control make them a dangerous opponent. The final’s outcome may hinge on whether PSG can exploit Inter’s defense, as Bayern did, or if Inter’s counter-attacks punish PSG’s occasional lapses. Fans can expect a high-scoring, action-packed game, with both teams averaging over two goals per match in the tournament.
A Final for the Ages
The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League final between Inter Milan and PSG is more than just a match—it’s a clash of contrasting styles, storied ambitions, and emerging legacies. Will Inter’s tactical discipline and European pedigree prevail, or will PSG’s dynamic attack and hunger for a first title steal the show? On May 31, 2025, the Allianz Arena will bear witness to a historic night that will crown a new king of Europe.
