Paris Saint-Germain retained the UEFA Champions League title after defeating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties following a dramatic 1-1 draw after extra time at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest.
Arsenal made the perfect start, taking the lead in the sixth minute through Kai Havertz. The German forward reacted quickest after a defensive scramble and produced a composed finish to put the Premier League champions ahead. The Gunners then delivered an impressive defensive display, frustrating PSG’s star-studded attack for much of the contest.
The French side eventually found a way back into the match in the 65th minute. Ousmane Dembélé converted from the penalty spot after a foul by Cristhian Mosquera on Khvicha Kvaratskhelia inside the area, bringing PSG level and shifting momentum toward the defending champions.
Both teams created chances during the remainder of normal time and extra time, but neither could find a winner. Arsenal were left frustrated by a rejected penalty appeal during extra time, with manager Mikel Arteta and midfielder Declan Rice both booked amid heated protests.
The final was ultimately decided by penalties. After misses from both sides, the shootout remained finely balanced until Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães failed to convert the decisive spot kick. PSG held their nerve to secure a 4-3 shootout victory and claim a second consecutive Champions League trophy under manager Luis Enrique.
Despite the heartbreak, Arsenal’s run to the final capped a remarkable season that also saw them win the Premier League title. Arteta urged his players to use the disappointment as motivation, while PSG celebrated another landmark achievement in European football.