Fans Thrive in Munich Before PSG and Inter Milan Champions League Clash
Under the vibrant Bavarian sun, Munich has transformed into a lively hub for soccer enthusiasts ahead of the Champions League final. With European club soccer's coveted prize on the line, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan fans are taking to the streets, energized and hopeful.
Inter Milan, nursing the wounds from their 2023 loss to Manchester City, and PSG, still smarting from their 2020 defeat by Bayern Munich, are eager to reverse their fortunes at Bayern Munich's Allianz Arena.
Fans meandered through the city’s fan zones, tasting Munich’s culinary delights. Near Odeonsplatz, seas of blue and black—Inter's colors—blanketed the historic cobbled square. Shielded from the sun, fans toasted their team over beer and snacks, while “ultras” clad in black paraded through the streets, supported by vocal companions sporting “hooligan” emblazoned shirts.
Contrast came from PSG’s supporters gathering at adjacent Königsplatz. Here, a serene atmosphere reigned, with fans quietly assembling, anticipation palpable in the air.
In the bustling Marienplatz—the city's main square—Inter fans were out in force. Led by brothers Giuseppe and Andrea Pertosa, the Inter faithful sang spiritedly, hoping redemption would follow their Istanbul disappointment.
For PSG, a gilded history of global superstars like Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, and Lionel Messi has yet to yield Europe’s top prize. Now, with a revamped lineup under coach Luis Enrique, hopes run high. “The motivation for me is to win the Champions League title for the first time for PSG,” Enrique declared, yearning to replicate his 2015 success with Barcelona.
Inter, after narrowly missing domestic glory, aims to add to its three European titles. Coach Simone Inzaghi remains grounded and positive. “These players in these four years did a lot — won a lot and lost sometimes. It happens. But we all gave our all,” he remarked, filled with pride.
The stage is set for a captivating encounter, kicking off at 9 p.m. local time (1900 GMT), as Munich's Allianz Arena braces for the frenzy of a hopeful city.
