Budapest (EFE).- Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) successfully defended their Champions League title, defeating Arsenal 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after regular time and extra time. With this victory in Budapest, the French team claimed its second consecutive European championship, extending the continental jinx for the English club.
The final showcased the strategy of Spanish coach Luis Enrique, who earned his third Champions League title as a manager. Conversely, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal left frustrated after losing the final, despite entering the tournament undefeated and holding the lead for much of the match.
Arsenal’s early surprise
Arsenal stunned PSG right from the opening whistle with high pressure that quickly paid off. In the 6th minute, a midfield error by Marquinhos allowed Germany’s Kai Havertz to steal the ball, run forty meters, and beat goalkeeper Matvey Safonov with a cross-shot, putting the score at 0-1.
Following the goal, PSG took absolute control of possession, reaching a notable 72%. However, Arsenal’s defensive wall, led by Gabriel and William Saliba, neutralized every Parisian attempt in the first half, leaving the reigning champion without a single shot on target before halftime.
