Arsenal's Spanish goalkeeper #01 David Raya (R) dives to make a save challenged by Paris Saint-Germain's French forward #29 Bradley Barcola during the UEFA Champions League final football match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Arsenal FC at the Puskas Arena in Budapest on May 30, 2026. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)
What could have been a moment of regret turned into a humorous reflection for Bradley Barcola. The 23-year-old striker, who entered the Champions League final against Arsenal late in the game, found himself in prime scoring positions during stoppage time, only to see his efforts fall short. Yet, his team’s victory overshadowed the missed chances, prompting a playful reaction on social media.
Missed golden opportunities
With the match tied 1-1 in Budapest, Barcola had two clear chances to seal PSG’s victory before the penalty shootout. In the 90th minute, he was played through on goal but saw his angled strike drift wide after a shaky first touch. The French attacker, who joined PSG from Lyon in 2023, later admitted the moment could have been decisive—but ultimately, the outcome favored his team.
A trophy celebration with a smile
In a post on Instagram, Barcola shared a photo with teammate Ousmane Dembélé, lifting the iconic Champions League trophy. His caption read: “J’aurais dû tuer le match mais ma3lich (it’s no big deal) on a gagné.” The lighthearted remark captured the spirit of resilience, emphasizing that the final result mattered more than individual misses.
The Parisian club secured its second consecutive Champions League title, winning the shootout 4-3 after a tense 1-1 draw. Barcola, who did not take a penalty in the shootout, contributed to the victory without needing to step up in the decisive moments.
More Stories
PSG’s barcola transfer saga: arsenal and liverpool lurk as contract deadline looms
PSG and Liverpool battle for Yan Diomandé’s 100m€ transfer
Kvaratskhelia’s PSG impact: the winter transfer that redefined the capital club