Paris Saint-Germain retained the Champions League title with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Arsenal in the 2026 final, held at the Puskas Arena in Budapest. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Gabriel Magalhães missing the decisive penalty for Arsenal.
First Half Action
Arsenal took an early lead in the sixth minute when Kai Havertz burst into the area and lashed a rising drive past PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov from a tight angle. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among Arsenal fans both in Budapest and back in north London at the George pub.
PSG pushed for an equalizer and had strong appeals for a penalty waved away after the ball struck Bukayo Saka's arm in the area. However, just before halftime, Arsenal's Cristhian Mosquera fouled Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the box, and Ousmane Dembélé converted the spot-kick, sending David Raya the wrong way.
Second Half and Extra Time
Both teams had chances in the second half but failed to convert. The match went into extra time, where Noni Madueke was bundled over in the area by Nuno Mendes, but his penalty appeals were rejected. PSG applied pressure, but Arsenal's defense held firm, with Safonov making a crucial save from a Declan Rice free-kick.
Penalty Shootout Drama
For the first time since 2016, the Champions League final went to penalties. After both teams converted their first four spot-kicks, Gabriel Magalhães stepped up for Arsenal's fifth penalty but lifted his effort over the bar, handing PSG the victory.
Reactions
Gabriel was consoled by his compatriot Marquinhos in a touching moment. PSG coach Luis Enrique lifted the trophy amid celebrations from fans in Budapest and Paris, where thousands took to the streets. Arsenal fans at the Emirates Stadium watched in despair as their team fell short.
