Borussia Dortmund booked their ticket to the Champions League final in dramatic fashion, edging out Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 on Tuesday night. The German side, now boasting a 2-0 aggregate win, will take on either Real Madrid or Bayern Munich at Wembley Stadium on June 1st.
Dortmund's central defender Mats Hummels rose to the occasion, heading home Julian Brandt's corner just after the break. This crucial goal proved to be the difference, silencing the Parc des Princes crowd and sending the travelling Dortmund faithful into raptures.
Despite boasting the world-class talent of Kylian Mbappé, PSG were unable to break down a resolute Dortmund defense. Mbappé, widely expected to join Real Madrid after the season, cut a frustrated figure throughout the game and left the field well before the final whistle.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Edin Terzić's Dortmund side. They are now on course to claim their second Champions League trophy, adding to their 1997 triumph. The Black and Yellows will also be aiming to avoid a repeat of their 2013 heartbreak when they lost the final to Bayern Munich.
For PSG, the wait for European glory continues. Despite significant financial investment in star players, the Qatari-backed club has yet to lift the coveted Champions League trophy. Their only appearance in the final, back in 2020, ended in defeat to Bayern Munich.
As ecstatic Dortmund players reveled in their historic achievement, a dejected Mbappé trudged off the field for what is likely his last Champions League appearance in a PSG jersey. The Parisians will rue their missed opportunities, particularly a glaring miss by Warren Zaïre-Emery from close range just before Dortmund's goal.
PSG coach Luis Enrique's tactics backfired as his team started cautiously and struggled to break down a well-organized Dortmund defense. Emre Can, in particular, provided excellent cover in midfield, nullifying the threat posed by Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.
While Dortmund's defense was resolute, their speedy winger Karim Adeyemi also posed a constant threat on the counter-attack. He forced a smart save from PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma in the first half.
Although Hummels' goal served as a wake-up call for PSG, they ultimately failed to capitalize. PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi pointed to the woodwork as a factor, but ultimately, Dortmund's defensive solidity and clinical finishing proved decisive.
With a place in the final secured, Dortmund can now dream of lifting the Champions League trophy for the second time in their history. Their journey to Wembley has been nothing short of remarkable, and they will be determined to rewrite the script of their 2013 defeat.
Stay up-to-date with the latest news by reading our blog.
Stay connected with us on our social networks for the latest updates Facebook, and X