As Paris Saint-Germain prepare to face Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final at the Allianz Arena in Munich, all eyes will be on the individual battles that could ultimately decide the fate of the trophy. With PSG chasing their first-ever Champions League title and Inter seeking a return to European glory, these contests across the pitch will be crucial.
Achraf Hakimi vs Federico Dimarco
This duel on the flank could prove one of the most dynamic of the match. Hakimi, PSG’s Moroccan full-back, has established himself as one of the most dangerous attacking defenders in the game. With 22 goal contributions this season, he is a constant threat in the final third. However, his offensive nature often leaves gaps behind him spaces that Inter’s Federico Dimarco will be eager to exploit.
Dimarco has been a consistent performer in Inter’s 3-5-2 system. His delivery from wide areas and ability to join attacks has yielded four goals and 11 assists in both domestic and European competitions. However, he was exposed defensively in the semi-finals, especially against Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal. Dimarco will need to balance his attacking instincts with a disciplined defensive display to contain Hakimi.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia vs Denzel Dumfries
On the opposite flank, the matchup between Kvaratskhelia and Dumfries presents another intriguing clash of styles. Kvaratskhelia, the Georgian winger who joined PSG from Napoli in January, is a creative livewire capable of turning games with a moment of magic. Although he has struggled against Inter in the past failing to score in six appearances while at Napoli his pace and trickery can cause problems.
Dumfries, Inter’s Dutch wing-back, is known for his powerful runs and attacking output. With 11 goals this season, including a brace in the semi-final first leg, he has proven his value going forward. However, he must remain alert defensively to prevent Kvaratskhelia from gaining the upper hand on the left wing.
Marquinhos vs Lautaro Martinez
At the heart of the contest lies a battle of captains. Marquinhos, the seasoned Brazilian defender, anchors PSG’s backline with composure and leadership. Now 31, he has lived through many of PSG’s Champions League heartaches, including the final defeat to Bayern Munich in 2020.
Lautaro Martinez, Inter’s talismanic forward, poses the biggest threat to the French club’s dreams. With 22 goals this season nine in Europe he has been pivotal to Inter’s progression. The Argentine has previously gone head-to-head with Marquinhos at international level, including in the 2021 Copa America final, which ended in triumph for Martinez’s Argentina. This clash promises to be both physical and tactical, with each player carrying the hopes of their team.
Ousmane Dembele vs Marcus Thuram
Two French internationals will go head-to-head in a fascinating subplot. Dembele has been transformed under Luis Enrique into PSG’s attacking spearhead. With 33 goals this season, he has evolved into a prolific finisher and is now a genuine Ballon d’Or contender. His pace, dribbling, and improved composure in front of goal make him a constant menace.
Thuram, meanwhile, has enjoyed his best season yet with 18 goals. He plays a vital supporting role alongside Martinez in Inter’s attack, offering power, movement, and an aerial presence. For both players, this final represents a chance to step out of the shadows whether that be from club legends or famous fathers and cement their own legacy.
Midfield Battle
Control of midfield could ultimately decide the game. PSG’s trio of Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Fabian Ruiz brings energy, technique, and versatility. Vitinha is the team’s heartbeat and penalty taker, while Neves provides relentless pressing and aerial ability. Ruiz contributes poise and work ethic, and his semi-final goal showed his knack for arriving at the right moment.
Inter’s midfield answers with experience and creativity. Nicolo Barella offers dynamism and tenacity, while Hakan Calhanoglu adds set-piece prowess and vision. Veteran Henrikh Mkhitaryan, despite his age, remains an influential figure but may struggle to complete the full 90 minutes.
As the final approaches, these battles will shape the narrative. The outcome will depend not just on star power, but on which individuals can impose themselves and rise to the occasion.
