Paris Saint-Germain newcomer Pedro “Dro” Fernandez became the latest player of Filipino heritage to win UEFA Champions League title following the clubs with over Arsenal on Saturday night (Sunday in the Philippines).
PSG secured the championship after their dramatic final against Arsenal in Budapest. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation and extra time before the French club prevailed, 4-3, in the penalty shootout.
The triumph places Fernandez among a select group of footballers with Filipino roots who have lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy.
Before Fernandez’s achievement, David Alaba was the most notable player of Filipino heritage to win the competition.
Alaba, whose mother is from the Philippines, captured three Champions League titles during his career — two with German giants Bayern Munich and another with Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid.
Fernandez’s victory further highlights the growing presence of players with Filipino heritage on football’s biggest stages.
The Champions League crown also marked a significant milestone for PSG as it was their second straight UEFA title after winning over Inter Milan a year ago.
For Fernandez, the title represents the biggest achievement of his club career and adds another chapter to the success of footballers with Filipino connections in European football.
