Declan Rice: Arsenal’s defeat in the Champions League was a lottery.

Declan Rice did not hide his bitterness following Arsenal’s defeat in the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, describing the penalty shootout as the decisive factor in an intense and closely contested night. The London team had a remarkable European campaign, reaching the final unbeaten and showing a consistency and resilience worthy of the best teams on the continent.

From the opening whistle, Arsenal came out determined, taking an early lead thanks to a goal from Kai Havertz, which seemed to secure them a position of strength on one of the most iconic stages in world football. However, PSG’s response was relentless: the defending champions took control of the game at various moments, tirelessly pressing for the equalizer. The Gunners’ defense held firm, frustrating the French attacks for much of the match.

The equalizer came through a penalty converted by PSG, leveling the score and sending the match into extra time and, subsequently, to the fateful penalties. The tension peaked during the shootout: Eberechi Eze missed for Arsenal, while Gabriel sent his attempt over the bar, thus handing the trophy to the Parisian club.

In statements to the BBC, Declan Rice did not hide his disappointment over the defeat in such a cruel scenario, but emphasized the team’s growth throughout the season: “It’s frustrating. It’s devastating to lose a Champions League final on penalties. I try to keep perspective on how far we’ve come as a group. It’s been an incredible season. We left everything on the pitch and took the game to the lottery of penalties. It’s a lottery, it’s football.”

Arsenal, despite the setback, is now preparing for the next season with the aim of consolidating the progress shown and returning stronger in the fight for major European titles. The Gunners have proven they are back at the top, but this painful outcome only reinforces the determination of a team hungry for glory.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.