"Surprise outcome": Borussia Dortmund defeats PSG and advances to the Champions League final.
In the return leg at the Parc des Princes, Dortmund managed to maintain their slim one-goal lead over PSG. The German team defended sturdily and emerged victorious, resulting in their berth in the Champions League final.
The dominating PSG was unable to open their scoreboard, leaving the door open for Dortmund's counterattacks. It was Mats Hummels who capitalized in the second half, scoring the sole goal and elating Dortmund's fans with a header in the 50th minute.
In contrast to their inconsistent domestic performance, Dortmund's Champions League journey has been extremely successful. With a 2-0 win on aggregate, the team will face either Real Madrid or their domestic rivals, Bayern Munich, in the final at Wembley Stadium on June 1.
Dortmund's manager, Edin Terzic_, expressed his faith early on, encouraging his players to believe in their ability to reach London. "It will take some time for it to fully sink in, but the joy is immense," he said, proudly noting their steady progress through each game.
PSG had plenty of chances, hitting the woodwork four times throughout the semifinal, including twice in the second leg, but failed to convert their efforts into goals.
Kylian Mbappé, playing his last Champions League match for the club, struggled to make an impact throughout the game. Ousmane Dembélé and Achraf Hakimi on the right wing provided most of PSG's attacking prowess.
Despite PSG's continual pressure, Dortmund's defense stayed strong throughout both matches, keeping their clean sheet intact.
Luis Enrique, PSG's manager, admitted defeat, saying, "We were not inferior over the two legs, but football often rewards the team that scores. It's no use begrudging missed opportunities."
This run in the Champions League is a remarkable turnaround for Dortmund, whose inconsistent domestic performance saw them rank fifth in the Bundesliga.
Dortmund had their last taste of a Champions League final back in 2013, also held at Wembley Stadium, where they unfortunately lost to Bayern Munich. They hope to improve their chances and take this unprecedented victory.
Long-time Dortmund player Marco Reus celebrated his last opportunity to play for his club in the Champions League. The 34-year-old forward, who has been with the team for 12 years, will be leaving at the end of the season.
Reus had been part of the 2013 final and described the current situation as "indescribable." Emotionally moved, he stated, "The way we won the match is not important. Only the fact that we once again made it to the final – nobody expected this – is a major accomplishment."
Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are currently tied at 2-2 going into their April 28 second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, with the final at Wembley Stadium awaiting on May 31.
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Source: edition.cnn.com
