How both sides reached the final
Paris Saint-Germain reached the final via one of the most breathtaking semi-finals in the competition's history. They beat Bayern Munich 5-4 at Parc des Princes in the first leg, then drew 1-1 at the Allianz Arena to advance 6-5 on aggregate. Kvaratskhelia, Doue and Barcola powered PSG's attack throughout the knockout rounds.
Arsenal's path was built on iron determination. A 1-1 draw at the Metropolitano against Atletico Madrid was followed by a 1-0 win at the Emirates, Viktor Gyokeres scoring the decisive goal in the 44th minute — the Gunners' first-ever Champions League final appearance in the competition's current format. Gyokeres finished the tie with two goals; Rice and Saliba built a defensive wall Atletico could not break through.
PSG — champions with a point to prove
PSG are the reigning European champions and have shown no sign of being willing to give up their crown without a fight. Doue, Barcola and Kvaratskhelia form one of the quickest and most creative attacks in Europe. Safonov proved against Bayern that he can stop even the most ferocious attacks — he was the undisputed hero of the second leg in Munich.
PSG's potential weakness lies in defence — they conceded five goals to Bayern in the first leg. Arteta will have noted that and prepared a plan to exploit it.
Arsenal — the season's revelation with history in their sights
Mikel Arteta has built a side this season that combines tactical discipline with impressive attacking output. Gyokeres, signed in the summer, has become one of Europe's finest strikers — his two semi-final goals against Atletico are just part of the picture. Saka, Eze and Rice form a midfield and wide unit that causes serious problems for any opponent.
Arsenal arrive in Budapest with one of the best defensive records in the entire tournament. Rice as a destroyer, Saliba and Magalhaes as the centre-back partnership — this trio makes the Gunners exceptionally hard to beat in knockout football. Many fans and analysts consider Arsenal favourites, though PSG's European pedigree cannot be overlooked.
Budapest — neutral ground, grand stage
The Puskás Aréna in Budapest will host 67,000 fans from across Europe. It is the first Champions League final in Hungary, and organisers promise a spectacle worthy of the occasion. Kick-off is at 21:00 CET on 30 May.
Our prediction
This is a clash of two entirely different football philosophies — PSG's speed and creativity against Arsenal's tactical discipline and collective strength. We expect a tight, intense match in which every detail could prove decisive. Who lifts the European Cup? We find out on 30 May in Budapest.