UEFA Champions League

PSG triumphs over Arsenal in penalty shootout: key player ratings from Champions League final

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Paris Saint-Germain claimed their second consecutive UEFA Champions League title with a dramatic penalty shootout victory against Arsenal. Ousmane Dembélé’s decisive goal in regulation time and Joao Neves’ relentless midfield dominance stood out in the Parisians’ performance.

Matveï Safonov: 5/10

Though conceding Arsenal’s opening strike from Kai Havertz, Safonov redeemed himself with crucial saves late in the game. His 74th-minute intervention prevented a potential equalizer, showcasing his shot-stopping ability under pressure.

Achraf Hakimi: 5/10

Returning from injury, Hakimi demonstrated high-intensity efforts early on but struggled to create clear chances on the right flank. His defensive contributions were solid but lacked the cutting edge needed in attack.

Marquinhos: 5/10

A costly error led to Arsenal’s opener, yet the veteran Brazilian marshaled the defense with composure in the second half. His leadership was vital in managing the game’s intensity during tense moments.

Willian Pacho: 4/10

Initially slow to react to Havertz’s goal, Pacho recovered with strong aerial duels and a solid first-half display. Minor lapses in the second period did little to overshadow his overall contribution.

Nuno Mendes: 5/10

Mendes faced physical challenges in the first half but grew more assertive after halftime. His improved crosses and defensive awareness provided a needed boost on the left side.

Vitinha: 5/10

Starting nervously, Vitinha found his rhythm later but failed to deliver a standout moment. His best chance narrowly missed the target, highlighting a quiet evening in attack.

Joao Neves: 7/10

The engine of the midfield, Neves dominated duels and covered every inch of the pitch. His tireless work rate and ball-winning ability earned him a full 90 minutes.

Fabian Ruiz: 6/10

A metronome in midfield, Ruiz maintained possession and delivered accurate passes. His positional discipline provided stability but lacked the creativity to break down Arsenal’s compact defense.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: 5/10

Contained by Arsenal’s defense early, Kvaratskhelia earned a penalty late in the game only to see his subsequent influence fade. Limited opportunities restricted his impact.

Substituted by Enrique in the 70th minute.

Ousmane Dembélé: 6/10

Dembélé’s penalty conversion was the defining moment of the final. Though rarely involved in the buildup, his composure in the shootout proved decisive in securing the title.

Désiré Doué: 7/10

The standout performer of the night, Doué tormented Arsenal’s defense with relentless dribbles. His calm penalty finish capped a stellar performance, earning him the highest rating among the starters.

Bradley Barcola: 5/10

Barcola’s introduction added pace to PSG’s attack, though chances were scarce. His early contribution hinted at the difference he could have made had he started.

Luis Enrique: 5/10

The coach’s tactical choices, including Hakimi’s selection, paid dividends. His in-game adjustments stabilized a shaky defense during critical phases.