Arsenal’s hopes of reaching the Champions League final were dashed in dramatic fashion as they fell 2-1 to Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes, losing 3-1 on aggregate.
Chasing a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, the Gunners started brightly, only to find PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma once again in inspired form. The Italian shot-stopper, who had frustrated Arsenal in the first leg at the Emirates, delivered a repeat masterclass, denying early efforts from Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Ødegaard with world-class saves.
Despite Arsenal’s pressure, it was PSG who struck first on the night. Fabian Ruiz fired a 20-yard effort past David Raya — with the aid of a deflection — after Thomas Partey’s headed clearance fell kindly for him in the 27th minute.
The drama continued in a thrilling second half. Donnarumma again showcased his brilliance, this time keeping out Bukayo Saka. At the other end, Raya saved a weak penalty from Vitinha after a handball by Myles Lewis-Skelly, giving Arsenal a temporary lifeline.
But that hope was short-lived. Partey’s mistake in midfield led to Achraf Hakimi doubling PSG’s lead with a sharp finish in the 72nd minute. Saka responded four minutes later with a well-angled strike to pull one back for Arsenal, but the comeback never materialized. He even missed a golden opportunity shortly after, skying a shot over an open goal.
With the final whistle, PSG secured their place in the Champions League final in Munich, where they will face Inter Milan on Saturday, May 31.
