Borussia Dortmund secured their place in the Champions League final after a tense 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final second leg, with Mats Hummels scoring the decisive goal.
The win at Parc des Princes gave Dortmund a 2-0 aggregate lead, propelling them to the final at Wembley Stadium next month.
Hummels’ header early in the second half left PSG scrambling for an equalizer that never came, despite hitting the woodwork four times. Dortmund’s unexpected journey to the final sees them positioned as underdogs, regardless of whether they face Bayern Munich or Real Madrid.
Reflecting on their first final appearance since 2013, Dortmund coach Edin Terzic expressed a mix of disbelief and excitement about reaching the London finale.
PSG’s defeat marks another year of unfulfilled Champions League aspirations, a stark contrast to the significant investment by their Qatari owners. The loss also signifies a disappointing end to Kylian Mbappe’s tenure with the club, as he is set to depart at the season’s end.
PSG captain Marquinhos lamented the team’s lack of finishing precision, acknowledging the need for more clinical play in crucial moments.
The match was PSG’s first European semi-final in front of home fans in nearly three decades, a historic occasion marred by the outcome.
PSG coach Luis Enrique’s strategic lineup changes, including the introduction of Goncalo Ramos and the repositioning of Mbappe, failed to produce the desired comeback. Dortmund, led by goalkeeper Gregor Kobel’s saves and a solid defensive performance, including the late addition of Niklas Suele, held firm against PSG’s attacks.
As the final whistle blew, Dortmund celebrated their advancement to the Champions League final, while PSG were left to contemplate what might have been. The German side now looks ahead to their showdown in London, where they will vie for European glory.
Reported By AFP.
