PSG wins thrilling shootout for back-to-back Champions League crowns

Paris Saint-Germain retained their Champions League crown, overcoming Arsenal 4-3 on penalties in a tense final that ended 1-1 after extra time. The victory cements PSG's position as a dominant force in European football, marking their second consecutive title.

Arsenal had taken an early lead through Kai Havertz in the sixth minute, capitalizing on a defensive error. The French champions, often criticized for underperforming despite significant investment, have now built a dynasty under coach Luis Enrique. He noted the final was "stronger than last year" and that the team "deserved it over the course of the season."

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It's stronger than last year because ​we knew before the match just how difficult it ‌would be to play against Arsenal.

The match turned in the 65th minute when Ousmane Dembele converted a penalty for PSG, leveling the score and shifting the momentum. Exhaustion set in as the game headed to a shootout, where PSG's strong record under Enrique, having won all six shootouts they've contested, proved decisive. Arsenal's Gabriel missed the decisive spot-kick, blasting his shot over the bar.

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As a club and a city, it's incredible to win, and I think we deserved it over the course of the season. The final was a real battle.