Heartbreak in Budapest
Arsenal lost the Champions League final to PSG on penalties Saturday night, 1–1 after extra time and 4–3 in the shootout (1) (10) (11). Cristhian Mosquera and Kai Havertz were involved in the key moments as your team came agonisingly close to European glory. The match was played in Budapest and went the full distance before spot kicks decided it (9). PSG have now won back-to-back Champions League titles, and this one stings (11) (12).
Referee under fire
Referee Daniel Siebert is facing heavy scrutiny after his performance in the final. Arsenal fans inside the stadium booed him following several decisions that went against your team (6) (7). The frustration was audible, and the officiating will be a talking point for days.
French press reacts
Across the Channel, the French media are in full celebration mode. Commentator Daniel Riolo praised PSG's "absolutely incredible evolution" after the win, while L'Equipe and others framed the victory as a defining moment for the club (5) (6). PSG captain Marquinhos, who lifted the trophy against Arsenal, could now become only the second captain in history to win both the Champions League and World Cup in the same year with Brazil (8).
Havertz already looking ahead
Kai Havertz isn't dwelling on the defeat. The Arsenal forward spoke after the match about his excitement for the upcoming World Cup with Germany, calling it a "huge anticipation" despite the final frustration (2) (3). He scored in the final but was on the losing side, and he's already shifting focus to the summer.
Fan reactions
Gunners supporters are hurting but proud. The mood on r/Gunners is one of heartbreak mixed with perspective, you're still champions of England for the first time in 22 years, and many fans are already pointing towards next season. One popular post simply reads "Gutted for him, the team, and us supporters, but we wouldn't be where we were without him." Another fan took the classy route, heading over to r/PSG to offer congratulations and respect. Mikel Arteta has also made it clear he wants "fast, smart and bold moves" this summer to keep Arsenal progressing. Join the discussion
