Paris Saint-Germain retained the Champions League with a penalty shootout victory over Arsenal in a gruelling final. Eberechi Eze and Gabriel both missed from the spot, handing PSG the trophy.
Arsenal's defensive resilience nearly took the match to a triumphant conclusion, but PSG's quality ultimately prevailed. The result marked Luis Enrique's third European Cup triumph as a coach, moving him behind only Carlo Ancelotti in the all-time standings.
Arsenal's manager expressed pride in his players despite the disappointment. "It's very tough to accept when you are so consistent throughout the competition and you lose the final on penalty kicks," he said. "I told the players that I'm so proud of them." He also reflected on a controversial penalty appeal in extra-time, noting it "could easily have been a penalty."
PSG's coach praised his team's composure. "I decided a long time ago to stay calm and try to enjoy it because you need luck to win on penalties. I think we were great in terms of the quality of our kicks and also the goalkeeper." He added: "Maybe today both teams deserved to win, but the way we played the whole season, I think we deserve it."
Arsenal's players were left to reflect on the pain of defeat. "It's gutting. It's devastating to lose the Champions League final on penalties," one said. "We're trying to keep perspective on how far we've come. An incredible season – that was our 63rd game in all competitions – and we've given it absolutely everything." They also backed their teammates: "We win together and we lose together. I'm so proud of this group."
