MUNICH – Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) achieved a historic milestone as they clinched their first Champions League title with a commanding 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the final held in Munich. The triumph puts an end to the club’s long journey toward securing Europe’s most prestigious club trophy, a goal backed by significant investments from Qatari ownership.
PSG’s head coach, Luis Enrique, expressed his pride in accomplishing what former all-stars Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe could not. Reflecting on the achievement, Enrique said, “Bringing home the Champions League trophy was always a priority, and we have finally ticked that box.”
The final saw a standout performance from 19-year-old French forward Désiré Doué, who played a pivotal role in the victory. Doué’s outstanding contribution on the field, including two goals and an assist, highlighted PSG’s transition from high-profile signings to focusing on building a cohesive team.
“This victory is magical and marks a new chapter in the history of our club and French football,” Doué remarked. His exceptional play was complemented by goals from Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and substitute Senny Mayulu, resulting in PSG securing the largest margin of victory ever in a Champions League final.
Ousmane Dembele, PSG’s striker, noted, “Winning in such a spectacular fashion makes it even more special.” This victory firmly places PSG among European soccer’s elite, not merely through financial prowess but through their on-field accomplishments.
The win took place at Munich’s Allianz Arena, a stadium with historic significance for PSG. It was here that they avenged their 2020 Champions League final defeat to Bayern Munich, an event that left Neymar in tears at the time. This occasion was marked by jubilant PSG fans celebrating in the stands, a stark contrast to the dejected Inter supporters who left early.
Captain Marquinhos lifted the coveted trophy amid a backdrop of fireworks and confetti, declaring, “We gave everything we had tonight, and this victory is for our incredible fans.”
PSG had evolved over the years under Qatari ownership, initially attracting superstar talents like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Beckham, and Edinson Cavani. However, despite this formidable lineup, the club had previously failed to clinch the Champions League. Enrique’s leadership marked a shift towards fostering a well-rounded team, ultimately leading to this historic success.
Despite parting ways with high-profile stars such as Messi and Neymar, which marked a new era, PSG still fields one of the world’s most valuable squads. Questions will inevitably arise regarding the role of nation-state funding in soccer, especially given Qatar’s backing that propelled PSG to European dominance.
As PSG celebrates, Inter Milan faces disappointment after being outmatched in their second consecutive Champions League final defeat. Inter coach Simone Inzaghi expressed his team’s disappointment, stating, “While this loss is difficult, facing adversity will make us stronger.”
In the wake of PSG’s triumph, the landscape of European football seems poised for further shifts, with other state-backed clubs like Newcastle United eyeing success on the continental stage. The journey continues, but for PSG, this victory marks the culmination of years of ambition and investment.