Steven Gerrard slammed Eberechi Eze for his 'nonsense' penalty as Arsenal suffered a heartbreaking shootout defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final. PSG retained their European crown with a penalty shootout victory over the Premier League leaders in Budapest.
Match Recap
Kai Havertz put Arsenal ahead with a brilliant early strike, but Ousmane Dembele equalised with a second-half penalty. Neither side could find a winner in normal time or the additional 30 minutes, and PSG held their nerve from the spot.
Penalty Shootout Drama
Eze stuttered during his run-up and put his effort wide, while Gabriel blasted over with the effort that confirmed PSG as back-to-back European champions. After the miss, Gerrard told TNT Sports: 'Penalties are hard enough. Think about the magnitude of the game, the stadium, the atmosphere, it's hard enough without any of that nonsense. Put your foot through it, back your technique.'
Reactions from Former Players
Speaking after Arsenal's defeat, former midfielder Jack Wilshere said: 'It will take a while to get over, but I'm pretty sure it's not going to take another 20 years to get to another final with Mikel in charge. I fancied us for penalties but it's a hard one to take.'
Former Manchester United star Owen Hargreaves added: 'What a journey this team has taken their fans on. The best in the Premier League, one of the best in Europe. Arsenal are here to stay, they will go again.'
Looking Ahead
The defeat marks a painful end to a remarkable season for Arsenal, who dominated the Premier League but fell short in Europe's biggest game. With Mikel Arteta at the helm, many believe the club will return to the final stage soon.
