Paris Saint-Germain quickly asserted their authority in the Champions League final, seizing a two-goal advantage within the initial 20 minutes. Achraf Hakimi and Desire Doue were the beneficiaries, punishing defensive disorganization from Inter Milan.
The opening goal exemplified PSG`s high level of play this season. The build-up began when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia advanced with the ball near the left touchline and penetrated the penalty area. The attack moved from inside to out, involving Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha, the latter providing the pass to Desire Doue, who found himself in a promising position with several options.
Doue chose wisely, rolling the ball across the goalmouth for Hakimi to easily convert into an empty net. This marked the fourth goal of the season for the PSG right-back, following crucial contributions in the semifinals and quarterfinals. It was a particularly poignant moment for the Moroccan, who opted not to celebrate against the team he represented in the 2020-21 season. The goal itself was also historic, being the first PSG has ever scored in a Champions League final as they aim to better their 2020 runner-up finish against Bayern Munich.
The early lead was a just reward for PSG`s aggressive, high-pressing, and technically proficient start to the encounter.
PSG`s momentum continued even after scoring. Their second goal highlighted another strong point: the fluid interchanging of their forward line. Ousmane Dembele, deployed as a central attacker, initiated a counter-attack down the left flank. The ball eventually reached the impressive Doue, whose shot deflected past a helpless Yann Sommer, doubling PSG`s lead.
Inter, and specifically defender Federico Dimarco, will feel responsible for not handling both scoring situations more effectively. On the first goal, the Italy international was drawn out of line while tracking Hakimi`s run into the penalty area, unintentionally playing the PSG player onside.
Regarding PSG`s second, while Dimarco may have had limited scope to prevent Doue`s initial shot, turning his back proved detrimental. It was his deflection that provided the crucial touch, ensuring the ball found the net. He is likely to ponder for years whether letting the ball hit him squarely would have altered its path.
