Paris erupted in jubilation on Saturday night as thousands of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) fans flooded the streets to celebrate their club’s historic 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final. The long-awaited triumph, marking PSG’s first-ever win in Europe’s most prestigious club competition, ignited a wave of pride across the French capital. However, the festivities were marred by clashes with police, leading to nearly 300 arrests and the use of water cannons to control rowdy crowds.
A Night of Glory and Chaos
The streets of Paris buzzed with energy as fans, draped in PSG’s iconic blue and red, poured out to celebrate. An estimated 48,000 supporters gathered at the Parc des Princes stadium to watch the match on giant screens, erupting in cheers as PSG dominated in Munich. For most, the night was a joyous affair filled with singing, dancing, and car horns blaring in unison. Clement, a 20-year-old PSG devotee, captured the mood perfectly: “It’s so good and so deserved! We have a song about our struggles, but this year, with a team of 11 guys playing for each other, we got our faith back.”
Yet, the celebrations took a turbulent turn near the Champs-Élysées and Parc des Princes. Paris police reported scuffles as some fans, labeled “troublemakers,” hurled large fireworks and objects at officers. Authorities deployed water cannons to prevent a crowd from reaching the Arc de Triomphe, detaining nearly 300 individuals, primarily for possessing fireworks and causing disorder. “Troublemakers on the Champs-Élysées sought to create incidents,” police stated, emphasizing their efforts to maintain order.
Tragedy in Grenoble
Outside Paris, the celebrations were overshadowed by a tragic incident in Grenoble, southeastern France. A car plowed into a group of fans reveling in PSG’s victory, injuring four members of the same family, two seriously. The driver turned himself in and was arrested, though a source close to the investigation suggested the act was unintentional. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances.
A Historic Victory for PSG
PSG’s Champions League win marks a defining moment for the club, which has long chased European glory. The team’s cohesive performance, devoid of superstar egos, resonated deeply with fans. French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the victory as a “day of glory for PSG,” tweeting, “Bravo, we are all proud. Paris is the capital of Europe tonight.” Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo echoed the sentiment, calling it a “historic” achievement.
On Sunday, the celebrations will continue with a victory parade along the Champs-Élysées, where tens of thousands are expected to cheer the returning heroes. President Macron will also host the triumphant squad at the Élysée Palace to honor their remarkable feat.
A City United in Pride
Despite the clashes, the overwhelming spirit in Paris was one of unity and pride. For a club that has faced its share of challenges, this victory symbolizes resilience and teamwork. As fans gear up for the parade, the streets of Paris will once again come alive, celebrating a moment that will be etched in PSG’s history forever.
Stay tuned to Zurichtrendingnews.com for updates on PSG’s victory parade and more global stories!