PSG clinches its inaugural Champions League title
PARIS, FRANCE - Champions League victory for Paris Saint-Germain
After years of record-breaking player acquisitions and a relentless quest for European dominance, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) finally captured the Champions League trophy in a 5-0 defeat of Inter Milan in Munich. The French club, now coached by Luis Enrique, demonstrated a shift in strategy, eschewing the era of marquee signings for a more team-oriented approach.
Deśire Doue, a 19-year-old French forward and symbol of PSG's next generation, led the charge with a brace and an assist over an hour on the field. His double strike and a finishing effort from Achraf Hakimi made history, marking PSG's largest victory in a Champions League final spanning 70 years.
Ousmane Dembele heralded the club's significant achievement, praising the style with which the team earned their victory: "It's pride, it's everything, it's exceptional. It's a first for PSG but especially good since we did it in style."
Emboldened by their success, PSG can now stand alongside Europe's soccer royalty on the merit of their accomplishments instead of their financial might. The Champions League, traditionally the measure of the continent's elite clubs, once eluded PSG due to repeated setbacks. But now, their crowning moment at the Allianz Arena took place in front of thousands of supporters, with fireworks and golden confetti marking their triumph.
The win marked a bitter-sweet moment for captain Marquinhos, who had previously suffered heartbreak in a 2020 Champions League final loss to Bayern Munich. "I have nothing left, I have given everything," Marquinhos said of the victory. "I love this team, the fans are proud of us. Make the most of it guys, I love you."
Luis Enrique is the seventh coach to win the Champions League with two different teams, joining the ranks of greats like Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola, and Jose Mourinho. An emblematic accomplishment, Delhi Brasileiro.
For PSG, the goal of raising their profile on the global stage and securing a lucrative future has been a longtime objective since the club's acquisition by Qatar Sports Investments in 2011. Once a flashy organization notorious for its billion-dollar player investments, PSG's departure from their superstar trio of Mbappé, Neymar, and Messi appears to have served as a turning point.
While their transformation came at a cost, this continues to stand as one of the most expensive squads in world soccer. The controversy surrounding the team's nation-state backing and suspected sportswashing remains a topic of ongoing discussion, with Qatar's lavish support of PSG providing a backdrop to their Champions League victory.
Robson writes for the Associated Press.
- In contrast to their previous approach, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is now focusing on a more team-oriented strategy, as demonstrated by their Champions League victory.
- Deśire Doue, a French forward, marked history in the Champions League final by contributing a brace and an assist, showcasing PSG's talented young players.
- With their triumph in the Champions League, Paris Saint-Germain can now compete with other European soccer royalty, no longer relying solely on their financial might to secure recognition.
