PSG champions of Europe again; Heartbreak for Gunners in penalties

BUDAPEST: Reigning champions Paris St-Germain retained their Champions League title, defeating English side Arsenal on penalties in the final held at Puskas Arena in Budapest. The match ended in a stalemate at full-time with both sides scoring one goal each. With this win, PSG became the first team after Real Madrid to win consecutive Champions League titles.

Kai Havertz scored for Arsenal within the opening ten minutes, leaving many PSG players and supporters flummoxed. Havertz made the most of the gaffe from Pacho but ended up making a few additional touches on the ball within the penalty area, putting him in a tight spot. However, the German converted the touch into a Podolski-esque finish, leaving PSG’s Russian goalkeeper Safonov gazing in oblivion. Apart from the small mistake that led to the goal, Willian Pacho was arguably PSG's best player on the field.

After trailing, PSG regained composure, but failed in every attempt to break the bulwark set by Arsenal’s immaculate defence. It was in the early stage of the second half that Kvaratskhelia was brought down inside the penalty area, resulting in a PSG penalty. Ballon d'Or winner Dembele put that in the back of the net, making the scores level.

Though Arsenal adapted mostly to a defensive style of play, they had their moments. The substitution of Madueke gave PSG serious headaches as Nuno Mendes had a tough time controlling the Arsenal wingman.

With both sides equalling the numbers in penalties, it was required for Arsenal to convert their fifth penalty to a goal or else face exit. Gabriel dos Santos Magalhães’ used his stronger left foot, aiming for a top bin finish, but the ball went soaring towards the spectators, gifting PSG their second ever Champions League title.