It took a penalty shoot-out to separate Europe’s two best sides. And it was PSG who emerged victorious after Eberechi Eze and Gabriel missed from 12 yards.
Determined to follow up their Premier League title success by making history in Budapest, it took Arsenal — specifically Kai Havertz — just six minutes to fire an arrow straight into PSG hearts. A ricocheted clearance fell into the German’s path and he plundered forward before lashing an unstoppable strike beyond Matvey Safonov at his near post from an acute angle.
PSG responded as expected, enjoying large spells of possession. But Arsenal’s gameplan seemed to be pitch perfect as the team, marshalled by the superb Gabriel, repelled any sustained attacking sequences to take their precious lead in at half-time.
The final turned on the hour mark: Cristhian Mosquera was penalised for bringing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia down in the penalty area and Ousmane Dembele made no mistake from 12 yards.
David Raya somehow managed to block Bradley Barcola’s path to goal in the final five minutes as both sides went in search of the goal that would make them European champions, only to have to settle for more chances to do so in extra-time.
Arsenal fury filled the air as the referee waved away a Noni Madueke penalty appeal in extra-time. But penalties is where the night ended up — and it was PSG who were once again triumphant in the Champions League final.
Arsenal have twice reached the Champions League final. Twice they’ve led. But both times they have seen immortality slip from their grasp.
It’s the cruelest way to lose. And this will hurt for some time, just as it did in Paris 20 years ago.
