PSG – Inter, Champions League – Final

Inter will not deviate from its style.

Inter doesn’t need to make many adjustments to its style compared to the match against Barcelona, because PSG’s playing model is very similar to that of the Catalans. Undoubtedly, Inter’s diagonal passes when progressing the ball and the resulting high-speed crosses will again be crucial. PSG is much stronger in individual duels than Barça, so it won’t be easy for Inter to advance the ball out wide—but we expect this to remain the Nerazzurri’s main plan. One more point to note: PSG’s full-backs (especially Hakimi, and likewise Nuno Mendes) often push very high up the pitch, leaving vacated defensive zones—which will very likely be Inter’s target.

PSG will attack with many players in advanced positions.

At PSG, there are often – or almost always – seven players actively attacking the opponent’s penalty area during their forward moves. Interestingly, they flood the box from literally every angle (figuratively creating a “funnel” effect), and by the time the attack reaches its conclusion they have plenty of bodies in positions that threaten the opposition. It’s also worth noting that PSG’s counter-pressing is far, far superior to Barça’s.

An exciting showdown is expected.

The Champions League final is always a match in which both sides seek security. That doesn’t mean they’ll sit back and play defensively; rather, they’ll try to shape the game into what they want it to be. Both teams boast extremely potent attackers who are capable of scoring at any moment.