PSG Hold Bayern to Reach Champions League Final, Set Up Arsenal Showdown

PSG players celebrating after reaching Champions League final


Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are through to the UEFA Champions League final after a 1-1 draw with Bayern Munich in Bavaria secured a 6-4 aggregate victory and set up a meeting with Arsenal in Budapest on 30 May.

The holders struck early on Wednesday to quiet the home crowd when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia burst onto a defence-splitting pass from Fabián Ruiz and squared for Ousmane Dembélé to fire in from close range after just three minutes.

Bayern pushed for a way back, with Luis Diaz and Michael Olise both shooting over as Vincent Kompany’s side pressed for an equaliser. 

The home manager was left frustrated when a penalty appeal was dismissed after Vitinha’s clearance struck Joao Neves inside the box.

Goalkeeper Matvey Safonov proved crucial for PSG, producing a fine save to deny Jamal Musiala late in the first half. 

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At the other end, Manuel Neuer kept Bayern’s hopes alive with stops from Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue as PSG adopted a more disciplined defensive shape after the interval.

Harry Kane did find the net in stoppage time with a powerful strike for his 14th goal of the competition, but it came too late to alter the outcome. 

The result means Bayern’s wait for a 12th European Cup final continues, with this their sixth successive semi-final exit.

For PSG, it is another step towards retaining the trophy they won last year. 

Coach Luis Enrique, who previously lifted the title with Barcelona, will now oversee his third Champions League final as a manager when his side face Arsenal.

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