Paris Saint-Germain has successfully defended its European crown, clinching a second consecutive Champions League trophy after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Arsenal this Saturday. While Ousmane Dembélé provided the crucial equalizer, Joao Neves delivered a tireless performance in the midfield. Here is an analysis of how the Parisians performed on this historic night.
Defensive performance and goalkeeping
Matveï Safonov: 5
He was left with virtually no chance on Kai Havertz‘s opening goal, which was struck from point-blank range. The goalkeeper showed great courage during a brave intervention in the 26th minute. He remained sharp throughout the second half, making several key saves, including a vital stop in the 74th minute.
Achraf Hakimi: 5
Having recently returned from injury, the Moroccan international showed no signs of physical fatigue, making several high-intensity sprints early in the match. However, he found it difficult to create clear-cut chances or break through the defense on the right wing.
Marquinhos: 5
A lapse in concentration led to a poor clearance that allowed Arsenal to take the lead in the 6th minute. The Brazilian captain had an inconsistent game, alternating between solid defending and moments of invisibility. Nevertheless, his veteran leadership was essential in the final stages to keep the team composed.
Willian Pacho: 4
The Ecuador international was unable to track back in time for the English club’s opening goal. Despite a generally positive start where he excelled in aerial duels, he suffered from several lapses in focus during the second half, though he managed to maintain a decent level of play.
Nuno Mendes: 5
The Portuguese defender struggled to find his rhythm on the left flank during the first half, often being overpowered physically and lacking technical precision. He looked much sharper and more determined after the interval.
Midfield control and battle
Vitinha: 5
He looked shaky at the start, mirroring the team’s overall struggle. Although he eventually helped dictate the tempo, he was less influential than usual. He did manage a dangerous shot in the second half that just cleared the crossbar.
Joao Neves: 7
A warrior-like display. He contested every single ball and was exemplary in his individual duels. Clearly the standout performer in the midfield, his stamina and impact were the reasons he remained on the pitch for the entire match.
Fabian Ruiz: 6
He delivered exactly what was expected of him. His positioning was sound, and his passing remained accurate throughout. He also provided a necessary physical presence in the middle of the park.
Attacking impact and decisive moments
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: 5
Initially kept quiet by Mosquera, he eventually managed to draw a foul to win a penalty. Aside from that moment, he was relatively quiet and struggled to unsettle a disciplined Arsenal defense. He was the first forward to be replaced by Luis Enrique.
Ousmane Dembélé: 6
He stepped up when it mattered most. While he wasn’t always played into the best positions, he proved decisive by converting a high-pressure penalty. His ability to stay calm in such a heated atmosphere was vital for PSG.
Désiré Doué: 7
He set up a great opportunity for Ruiz in the 13th minute and was a constant thorn in the side of the opposition. As the most dangerous Parisian attacker on the night, he capped off his excellent performance with a coolly taken penalty.
Bradley Barcola: 5
His introduction brought much-needed pace and depth to the attack. He nearly made an immediate impact with one of his first touches, though his influence waned as the game reached its conclusion.
Luis Enrique: 5
Starting Hakimi proved to be a reasonable decision. The manager spent much of the game micro-managing his defenders, who faced a challenging evening against the London side’s attack.
