Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are battling it out at the Puskas Arena in Budapest for the Champions League trophy in a historic occasion for the Gunners.
It marks Arsenal’s first ever appearance in a Champions League final, with PSG standing in their way as the competition’s defending holders.
Kai Havertz broke the deadlock early, scoring after just five minutes to give Arsenal a platform heading into the second half.
Arsenal managed to keep PSG largely at bay despite the French side dominating possession, registering 75 percent of the ball in the opening 45 minutes.
PSG had just one shot on target in the first half, a testament to the defensive resilience shown by William Saliba and Gabriel at the back.
Jaap Stam speaking to ComeOn praised the Arsenal defensive pairing, saying: “Gabriel and William Saliba are not the best centre back pairing in Premier League history, but I think at the moment they’re very good.”
Stam continued: “They’re guiding the plays in front of them, even with set pieces of course, especially Gabriel, he’s an asset, he’s very important in scoring goals or to block the other team.”
Mosquera was shown a yellow card early in the second half for taking too long to take a throw-in, before Bukayo Saka also received a booking for a challenge on Desire Doue.
PSG were awarded a penalty after Kvaratskhelia was brought down by Mosquera, with the decision confirmed following a VAR check in the 63rd minute.
Ousmane Dembele stepped up to take the spot kick despite PSG having missed three penalties on their route to the final, and he converted to draw the sides level.
Arsenal then made a double substitution, with Mosquera replaced by Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard making way for Viktor Gyokeres as Mikel Arteta looked to regain the lead.
Steven Gerrard, commentating on TNT Sports, warned: “Arsenal must not panic,” as PSG pushed for a second goal following the equaliser.
A drinks break was called at the 70-minute mark, giving Arteta a chance to regroup his players and steady the ship against a resurgent PSG side.
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