June 9, 2026
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“we played so well, but psg is by far the best team in the world”: arsenal supporters’ fair play after champions league loss

Paris Saint-Germain secured their second consecutive Champions League trophy on Saturday, triumphing over Arsenal in a fiercely contested final decided by a penalty shootout. While jubilation erupted among Parisian supporters, the Gunners’ faithful were left stunned. Yet, a prevailing sense of satisfaction remained, stemming from their long-awaited Premier League title victory this season, a feat they had pursued for nearly a quarter of a century.

Le déception des supporters d'Arsenal, à Londres, après la défaite en finale de la Ligue des champions, le 30 mai 2026, face au PSG. (MACIEK MUSIALEK / ANADOLU / VIA AFP)

The Arsenal supporters, visibly crestfallen and dazed, absorbed the crushing blow. Their team had just fallen to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final on Saturday, May 30, after a gripping encounter that ended 1-1 following extra time, ultimately decided by penalties.

Outside a London pub near Arsenal’s stadium, Taz stood for an extended period, her gaze distant, leaning against a barrier. “That was an incredibly draining match to watch emotionally. Naturally, I’m disappointed by the loss,” she confided.

“quite a few poor referee decisions”

Beside her, David had slammed the table in frustration when Arsenal defender Gabriel missed his crucial penalty. In that instant, a profound sense of disillusionment and despair washed over the fans. It was a devastating blow, especially after their team had initially taken the lead, having been confident they could hold off the Parisian attack.

Les supporters d'Arsenal réunis à l'Emirates Stadium de Londres, le 30 mai 2026 (YVAN PLANTEY / RADIO FRANCE)

Dembélé’s equalizer shattered their hopes in a split second, transforming their confident expressions into anxious stares. Many replayed the match endlessly in London’s pubs late into the night. “There were quite a few poor referee decisions,” David remarked. “There should have been a penalty awarded to Arsenal at one moment. But ultimately, it just wasn’t meant for us, simply put.”

“I’m absolutely devastated. They played well, but I’m truly at rock bottom.”

David, a Gunners supporter

Despite the disappointment, Dave reminded everyone of the English origin of “fair play.” “I am incredibly proud; we performed so well. But Paris Saint-Germain is, by far, the best team globally. Last year, they crushed Inter Milan, and we managed to hold our own against them,” he emphasized.

“i’ll feel better at the parade”

Echoing the sentiments of nearly every Arsenal fan encountered on Saturday evening, Odie asserted that the season’s paramount achievement was securing the English championship. “Everyone will remember that we won the Premier League. That was our primary goal for this season, what we had hoped for and anticipated for so many years.”

These dedicated supporters are all expected to attend the club’s celebratory parade for their Premier League title. “I’ll feel better once I’m at the parade,” Myrus shared with a smile. “We’ll be celebrating the league title, not the Champions League, but we have the title! After 22 years of waiting, we finally have it!” English media outlets are projecting between 500,000 and 1 million fans to gather around the Emirates Stadium on Sunday for the festivities.