Arsenal’s hopes of reaching the Champions League final were dashed after a 2-1 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on a dramatic night at Parc des Princes.

Trailing 1-0 from the first leg, the Gunners started brightly, only to be repeatedly denied by a sensational performance from PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The Italian, who shone in the first leg, once again frustrated Arsenal with crucial saves—most notably from Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Ødegaard.

Despite Arsenal’s early dominance, it was PSG who struck first. A partially cleared ball by Thomas Partey fell to Fabian Ruiz, whose deflected 20-yard shot beat David Raya in the 27th minute.

The second half delivered more drama. Donnarumma kept PSG ahead with a superb stop from Bukayo Saka, while Raya saved Vitinha’s penalty after a handball by Myles Lewis-Skelly. However, Partey’s error led to Achraf Hakimi doubling PSG’s lead on 72 minutes.

Saka gave Arsenal hope with a precise finish four minutes later, but despite a late flurry—including a glaring miss over an open goal—the comeback never materialised. PSG will now face Inter Milan in the final in Munich.

Arsenal produced a spirited performance, but once again lacked the cutting edge when it mattered most. Declan Rice squandered a golden early chance, and stand-in forward Mikel Merino failed to provide a consistent threat.

While Mikel Arteta's side can take pride in their display, their five-year trophy drought continues. The emotional scenes at the final whistle underlined the heartbreak for Arsenal, as PSG celebrated a famous win.

Arteta must now rally his squad to secure a top-five Premier League finish and another shot at Champions League glory next season.

Source: BBC

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