By Adekunle Oluwafunmilayo
Former retired Super Eagles midfielder and coach Sunday Oliseh has predicted that the outcome of this season’s UEFA Champions League final between Arsenal F.C. and Paris Saint-Germain F.C. will be determined largely by the pace and intensity of the encounter.
Speaking on the Oliseh Global Football Insights show, the former Juventus midfielder explained that Arsenal would have the advantage in a slow and controlled contest, while PSG would thrive if the game becomes fast-paced and open.
“For this final, one thing is very certain,” Oliseh said. “If the tempo of the game is low, Arsenal will win. If Paris Saint-Germain raises the tempo and it becomes high, we are seeing the defending champions lifting the trophy.”
Oliseh praised Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for building one of the strongest defensive units in world football, noting that the Gunners’ consistency throughout the Champions League campaign gives them a psychological edge heading into the final.
“They don’t concede easily,” he added. “If you look at it statistically, Arsenal should win because they have not lost one game in the Champions League this season.”
Despite Arsenal’s defensive solidity, Oliseh warned against underestimating PSG’s attacking strength, describing the French champions as one of Europe’s most dangerous offensive sides capable of punishing opponents with speed and intensity.
The former midfielder also referenced last season’s final, where Inter Milan struggled to contain PSG’s attacking firepower despite their strong defensive record.
Oliseh concluded by describing Arsenal and PSG as the standout teams of this season’s competition, predicting a closely contested final between two sides with contrasting tactical approaches.
