PSG defend Champions League crown in penalty shootout thriller against Arsenal

A historic title defence

Paris Saint-Germain successfully defended their Champions League crown, matching a feat only previously achieved by Real Madrid in the modern era. The French champions secured their second consecutive title with a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Arsenal at the Puskás Arena in Budapest. The match had finished 1-1 after extra time, with Arsenal's Gabriel Magalhães missing the decisive spot-kick.

He has this gift of scoring important goals.

Early Arsenal shock

Arsenal made a dream start when Kai Havertz fired them ahead in the sixth minute. A fortunate ricochet off Marquinhos fell perfectly for the German international, who hammered the ball under the crossbar from a tight angle. According to data provider Opta, Havertz became the first German to score in two different Champions League finals since the competition's rebranding in 1992.

PSG's penalty equaliser

Arsenal's famously stubborn defence — which had conceded only six goals in 14 Champions League matches before the final — held firm for over an hour. PSG dominated possession with over 70 percent but struggled to create clear chances. The breakthrough came when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia drew a foul from Cristhian Mosquera inside the box, and Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé converted the penalty in the 65th minute.

Shootout drama

The match went to penalties after a goalless extra time. The first three takers for both sides scored. Arsenal's Eberechi Eze then dragged his effort wide of the post, but David Raya immediately saved Nuno Mendes' penalty to keep the shootout level at 3-3. Lucas Beraldo scored for PSG, leaving Gabriel Magalhães needing to convert. The Brazilian defender sent his penalty over the crossbar, sparking wild celebrations among the Parisian fans.

Records and milestones

PSG's victory earned them a €25 million UEFA prize. The club also equalled Barcelona's record of 45 goals in a single Champions League campaign. Manager Luis Enrique claimed his third Champions League title as a coach, joining Pep Guardiola, Bob Paisley, and Zinédine Zidane on that mark. Arsenal, fresh from winning the Premier League, suffered their first defeat in 15 Champions League matches this season and must continue waiting for their first European crown.