The most coveted trophy in European club football will soon be decided. The 2024-25 UEFA Champions League final is scheduled following the conclusion of the semifinals this week, bringing us closer to the ultimate clash where footballing legacies are at stake. The journey commenced in July with qualifying rounds involving 81 teams, progressing through the dramatic and expanded 36-team league phase. Now, only two teams remain standing.
Who is playing in the Champions League final?
The final will be contested between Italy`s Inter Milan and France`s Paris Saint-Germain. Inter secured their place by defeating Barcelona in a memorable semifinal, while PSG navigated past Arsenal with relative ease.
Inter Milan holds three Champions League titles and made a recent appearance in the final just three seasons ago, where they were narrowly defeated 1-0 by a formidable Manchester City side. Paris Saint-Germain, conversely, is seeking their first-ever victory in this competition, aiming to become only the second French club to lift the trophy after Marseille did so. PSG`s sole prior final appearance was in 2020, ending in defeat against Bayern Munich.
Neither club was initially widely tipped as a primary contender to win the tournament, which has historically been dominated by teams from Spain, England, and Germany. A team outside these three countries hasn`t won since Inter`s triumph in 2010, and France`s only title dates back to 1993.
Inter has managed to remain competitive despite replacing star players over the years, impressively knocking out strong opponents like Bayern Munich and Barcelona en route to the final. While perhaps not top favorites compared to sides like Manchester City or Real Madrid, Inter`s collective experience and continued improvement made them a significant threat. PSG, a club often featuring global superstars such as Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, and Lionel Messi in recent years, remarkably reached this final season *after* Mbappe`s move to Real Madrid, surprisingly entering the match as the early favorites.
When and where is the Champions League final?
The final is set for Saturday, May 31. The prestigious Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, has been chosen as the host stadium. While most Champions League matches take place mid-week, the final traditionally occurs on a Saturday.
What time does it start?
The match is scheduled to kick off at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 31.
Where can I watch it?
In the United States, the game will be broadcast on CBS and will also be available for streaming on Paramount+, which serves as the official platform for all Champions League coverage.
