Online Reporter
Arsenal suffered heartbreak in the Champions League final in Budapest as they were beaten 4-3 on penalties by PSG after a tense 1-1 draw in 120 minutes.
It was set to be a historic evening for whoever won the coveted trophy —Arsenal looking for their first Champions League title 20 years on from their last final appearance, while PSG were aiming to defend the title they won last summer.
The Gunners made the perfect start too as Kai Havertz powered home on a tight angle inside six minutes.
It was a defensive masterclass from Arsenal for much of the 120 minutes, with PSG’s potent attack looking disjointed and void of ideas.
They needed a penalty to level after Cristhian Mosquera fouled Khvicha Kvaratskhelia just after the hour mark, with Ousmane Dembele firing home a beauty from the spot.
But despite chances — including an Arsenal penalty appeal waved away in the first half of extra-time — the game went to the lotery of penalties.
Eberechi Eze missed the Gunners’ second, but that was matched by a brilliant save from David Raya on the next spot-kick to keep out Nuno Mendes.
The two teams continued to trade blows until Gabriel stepped up for Arsenal’s fifth penalty – skying it into the jubilant PSG fans behind the goal.
It was a horrible moment for a player who did not deserve it — the Gunners defender had been one of their best players at the Puskas Arena — as Arsenal fell short in Europe once again. — Sky Sports.
derick.khumalo