The Champions League final could not have started better for Arsenal. In the sixth minute, Kravetz capitalised on a moment of indecision in the PSG defence to find himself one-on-one with Safonov and beat him with a powerful shot into the top corner. It was the ideal scenario for the Emirates Stadium side, as they could cede possession to their opponents and close down spaces to launch counter-attacks.

That was the script for the first half, in which Arsenal were the better side by ensuring the match played out the way they wanted. In fact, the key moment came when the German striker had a chance to score his second goal just before half-time. After the break, Luis Enrique’s side improved and didn’t let Arsenal run riot, forcing them to focus on defending their area.

But PSG’s dominance was constant, and following a fine move involving Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé, Mosquera was late and brought down the Georgian winger. Dembélé made no mistake from the penalty spot to level the match with half an hour remaining. In the final 30 minutes, PSG were the better side, but David Raya produced two fine saves to take the final into extra time.

On the verge of an English clean sweep

In extra time, fatigue took centre stage, as, although both teams had dangerous approaches, neither had a clear enough chance to score and win the final. Thus, at the end of 120 minutes, the score remained level and the Champions League final was decided on penalties.

PSG took the first spot-kick, and Gonçalo Ramos did not miss. Gyokeres also scored Arsenal’s first, and Doue the French side’s second. Then came Eze’s miss, as he sent the ball wide. Nuno Mendes had the chance to put Luis Enrique’s side ahead, but David Raya saved his shot. Rice equalised, Hakimi and Martinelli did not miss, and everything was decided on the fifth spot-kick. Beraldo scored for the Parisians and Gabriel sent his shot over the bar.

PSG thus secured their second Champions League title, their second in a row. Arsenal, for their part, have lost both finals they have contested in their history. The ‘Gunners’ have failed to complete an all-English sweep in Europe following titles for Aston Villa in the Europa League and Crystal Palace in the Conference League. Nevertheless, Mikel Arteta’s side have had an outstanding season, winning the Premier League.

Results of the European finals

• Conference League: Crystal Palace 1-0 Rayo Vallecano
• Europa League: Freiburg 0-3 Aston Villa
• Champions League: PSG 1-1 Arsenal (4-3 on penalties)