Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has lauded his teammates following their qualification for the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League final.
PSG secured a 2-1 victory over Arsenal at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday night, sealing a 3-1 aggregate win in the semifinal clash. This follows their narrow 1-0 triumph in the first leg in London.
Speaking to Canal Plus after the match, Hakimi expressed his joy and appreciation for the team’s resilience.
“It’s an amazing achievement, the atmosphere is great, and we worked really hard for this moment,” Hakimi told Canal Plus after the game.
“Many didn’t believe in us, and we were close to being eliminated from the Champions League at one point, but we worked really hard. We’re a family, and we deserve these happy moments.”
Hakimi extended his gratitude beyond the squad: “Everyone who belongs to this club deserves this moment: our fans, club officials, our families, and everyone who supported us. We are very proud of this match.”
The Moroccan international also heaped praise on PSG head coach Luis Enrique.
“He is a genius and has been doing a fantastic job since taking over. It took him a whole year to build a fantastic team, thanks to his intense work.”
PSG took the lead through Fabian Ruiz before Hakimi doubled their advantage with a well-placed strike from the edge of the box.
Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka offered a glimmer of hope for the visitors with a goal minutes later, capitalising on a sharp run and assist by Leandro Trossard, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
PSG will now face Inter Milan in what promises to be a thrilling final at the Allianz Arena in Munich on May 31.
