By Frank Ulom
Paris Saint-Germain, PSG, manager Luis Enrique has described his side’s successful defence of the UEFA Champions League title as an even greater achievement than last season’s triumph after PSG edged Arsenal in a dramatic final in Budapest.
The French champions secured a second consecutive European crown following a tense encounter that ended in a penalty shootout after both sides were locked at 1-1 following extra time.
Arsenal, fresh from their Premier League title success, took an early lead through Kai Havertz, who capitalised on a deflected clearance to beat PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov.
Despite dominating possession for long periods, PSG struggled to break down Arsenal’s organised defence until the second half. Their breakthrough came when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was brought down inside the penalty area by Cristhian Mosquera. Ousmane Dembele calmly converted the resulting penalty to level the score and force extra time.
Speaking after the victory, Enrique praised his players for overcoming a difficult challenge.
“Even stronger than last year because we knew before the match the difficulty of playing against Arsenal. For us, as a team and a city, it’s incredible to win, and I think it’s deserved over the whole season,” he said.
“The final was very difficult. But it’s the moment to celebrate with our supporters.”
The Spaniard also revealed that a tactical adjustment, which saw Vitinha pushed further forward after the interval, helped PSG create more attacking opportunities against Arsenal’s compact defensive structure.
PSG captain Marquinhos hailed the squad’s mentality and determination, noting the challenge of defending a European title.
“These are different emotions, back to back. We showed that we really wanted it since the first day of this season. The coach said it’s even harder to win twice. Today, we had the complete team and the mental strength,” he said.
The Brazilian also joked with supporters in the French capital, adding:
“Thank you, everyone who is in Paris! Enjoy it, guys, and don’t make a mess!”
In the shootout, PSG suffered an early setback when Nuno Mendes saw his penalty saved by David Raya. However, Arsenal failed to capitalise as Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Magalhaes both missed from the spot.
Gabriel’s decisive miss, which flew over the crossbar, sparked jubilant celebrations among PSG players and staff as the club claimed its second European Cup title.
Midfielder Joao Neves reflected on the success and praised the club’s project.
“It’s the best choice I’ve made in my life; I love everything. This year was different. It was more physical, more difficult; we had to defend our title. We are in the history of PSG; we are all happy.”
Young forward Desire Doue also set his sights on further glory.
“The first one was exceptional, but we had this desire more than anything to go and get the second. And it’s not over. The second is here; we’re going to keep working, and the third, we’re going to go get it.”
The victory places Paris Saint-Germain in an exclusive group, becoming the only club besides Real Madrid to retain the Champions League title in the modern era of the competition.
In an official statement, PSG urged supporters to celebrate responsibly, describing the triumph as another historic chapter in the club’s development.
French President Emmanuel Macron also congratulated the champions, saying:
“A new star shines on Paris! Bravo to PSG who made all of Europe dream. France is proud.”
Having now secured back-to-back Champions League titles, attention will turn to whether PSG can continue their dominance and pursue a third consecutive European crown next season.
