Arsenal will continue their quest to win their first ever Champions League after a heartbreaking penalty shoot-out loss to Paris Saint-Germain.
The match ended 1-1 after 90 minutes and extra time, but the final went to penalties, with Mikel Arteta’s side losing due to mistakes by Eberechi Eze and Gabriel.
The Gunners got off to a dream start after just six minutes when Kai Havertz crashed into the roof of the net.
Having Havertz up front from the start was Mikel Arteta’s most controversial selection decision, but he was quickly vindicated.
PSG dominated possession for the rest of the second half, but Arsenal could not get a single shot through. In fact, Havertz could have scored a second goal in first-half stoppage time, but was denied by Marquinhos.
It was a similar story after the break, but just after the 10 minute mark Juvica Kvaratscheria got the better of Cristian Mosquera and was brought down inside the penalty area. Ousmane Dembele didn’t make a mistake from the spot.
It was then PSG who had a chance to win, but Kvaratschelia, Vicinha and Bradley Barcola squandered the chance with the final kick of normal time.
In the first half of extra time, Arsenal believed they should have been awarded a penalty after Noni Maduke went down in the box. But their vehement protests were ignored as Declan Rice and Arteta were suspended.
A penalty shootout was then held to determine who would become the champion of Europe. Eze blinked first, then David Raya made a save from Nuno Mendes. But Gabriel’s mistake meant Arsenal’s dream was over.
John Cross, the Mirror’s chief football writer, was at the Puskas Arena to give his assessment of Arsenal’s players.
Arsenal vs PSG player ratings
David Raya 7 – If he was in PSG’s goal, it’s hard to imagine him being brought down at the near post. Powerless against PSG’s penalties. He did a great job of stopping Mendes’ penalty, but it wasn’t enough.
Cristian Mosquera 6 – Reserved. He gave a nod to Timber and did a great job until his clumsy challenge upset Kvaratschelia and allowed PSG to take the lead.
Cristian Mosquera was penalized for a foul on Juvica Kvaratschelia
William Saliba 7 – Looks very elegant and strong. He senses danger and protects it like a lion. His class on the ball gives confidence to the defense.
Gabriel 8 – He was great. Brilliant blocks, incredible determination and strength. Bet absolutely everything. He was the guy who ended the contest with a mistake because he was so cruel.
Piero Hincapie 7 – More defensive than Calafioli (who was a bit smoldering) and it worked. He was a good tackler, strong and defended brilliantly.
Declan Rice 7 – Worked hard, made some good interceptions and was solid throughout. He never goes below 100 percent.
Miles Lewis-Skelly 9 – An incredible story. It was an incredible show of faith that he started ahead of Zvimendi. His fearless running, work rate and determination were amazing.
Miles Lewis-Skelly has been selected to replace Martin Zvimendi in midfield.
Martin Odegaard 7 – His work rate was incredible. He covered more distance than any other player in the first half. It may have sunk due to lack of gas.
Bukayozaka 6 – Reserved. Although it wasn’t one of his best games, he backed up Mosquera effectively and kept a solid defense.
Leandro Trossard 7 – He is Mikel Arteta’s go-to man in Europe. he works very hard. His control is excellent and his blocks assist Havertz.
Kai Havertz 7 – Great finish. This angle seemed impossible, but he still pulled it off. We held the ball and worked hard, but we really could have had another ball.
Kai Havertz scores Arsenal’s wonderful opening goal
substitute player
Timbre, for Mosquera, 66 minutes, 6
Gokeres, Odegaard, 66 minutes, 6
Martinelli, Trossard, 83 minutes, 6
Maduke, bound for Saka, 83 minutes, 6.
Zvimendi vs. Lewis Skelly, 90 minutes, 6
Eze, for Havertz, 90 minutes, 6.
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