Stephane Darmani: Flamengo clash changed Safonov before PSG v Arsenal final | OneFootball

Matvei Safonov is central to PSG’s hopes in Saturday’s Champions League final against Arsenal. The Russian saved four penalties last December to deny Flamengo a second world crown.

“The Flamengo game definitely weighed in his favour, above all the penalty saves, which are a big strength of his,” he told GE.

“The season restarted in January with Chevalier in goal, also because he cost 40 million euros, but little by little Safonov showed he deserved the place.”

Before the Mundial, Safonov was PSG’s third choice. Chevalier had taken over from Gigi Donnarumma, then injured an ankle on the eve of facing Flamengo.

Safonov seized his chance, denying Luiz Araújo, Pedro, Saúl and Léo Pereira in the shootout after a 1-1 draw through extra time. PSG failed with two kicks, but Flamengo’s tally was worse.

With Safonov starting, PSG meet Arsenal at 13:00 Brasília time on Saturday in Budapest. The winner qualifies for the 2026 Intercontinental. If Flamengo win the Libertadores and Paris win the Champions League again, a December rematch could follow.

Source: Coluna Do Fla