Staff Reporter
PARIS Saint-Germain were crowned UEFA Champions League champions for a second consecutive season after defeating Arsenal FC 4-3 on penalties following a dramatic 1-1 draw after extra time in Saturday’s final in Budapest.
The victory secured back-to-back European titles for PSG after neither side could be separated during 120 minutes of action, with the match ultimately decided in a tense penalty shootout.
Arsenal made a bright start and took the lead through Kai Havertz, who capitalised on a midfield break and a deflected ball before firing home at the near post. The goal marked Havertz’s second UEFA Champions League final goal, having previously scored the winner for Chelsea in the 2021 final.
The English side, renowned for its defensive strength throughout the competition, successfully protected its advantage for much of the match with a disciplined defensive display.
However, PSG were awarded a penalty in the 64th minute after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was brought down inside the area. Ousmane Dembélé converted from the spot to level the scores at 1-1 and force the contest into extra time.
Neither team managed to find a winner during the additional 30 minutes, sending the final to penalties.
In the shootout, Arsenal’s Eberechi Eze missed the club’s second penalty, although goalkeeper David Raya kept the Gunners in contention by saving Nuno Mendes’ third attempt for PSG.
The decisive moment came when Gabriel failed to convert Arsenal’s fifth penalty, allowing PSG to secure a 4-3 shootout victory and retain the Champions League trophy.
The result denies Arsenal what would have been a historic double, while PSG further cemented their status as the dominant force in European club football.
Photo: UEFA
