Chance creation
Playmaking output: assists, key passes, and custom chance-creation signals.
Birinci Dasta · Goalkeeper · #34 · Georgia · 25 yrs
T. Kvaratskhelia is a goalkeeper. T. Kvaratskhelia is a represents Georgia, 25 years old, goalkeeper. T. Kvaratskhelia wears shirt number 34. T. Kvaratskhelia was born in Georgia on 1999-09-02. T. Kvaratskhelia's Sportra profile tracks season statistics across Birinci Dasta, Cup, Erovnuli Liga 2, David Kipiani Cup. T. Kvaratskhelia's page brings together career clubs, trophies, injury history, multi-competition stats, and related news headlines. On Sportra you can explore T. Kvaratskhelia season statistics, transfer history, trophies, injury updates, and related news across every competition tracked in the profile.
Goalkeeper · #34
| Date | Type | From | To |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-07-01 | Free |  Merani Tbilisi |  Karvan |
| 2021-11-26 | N/A |  Aragvi Dusheti | Merani Tbilisi |
Season intelligence
Profile as Goalkeeper: balanced output without a single dominant trait. Archetype: Modern goalkeeper.
Scaled 0–99 from season output — map to fantasy, comparisons, or scouting cards.
Per-90 rates, efficiency ratios, and Sportra indices from season totals.
Playmaking output: assists, key passes, and custom chance-creation signals.
Every tracked category for this league and season, grouped by Sportra.
Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, and Harry Kane are once again competing for one of Lionel Messi's favorite individual awards, adding another fascinating chapter to the race for soccer's top personal honors. Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, and Harry Kane are once again competing for one of Lionel Messi‘s favorite individual awards, adding another fascinating chapter to the race for soccer’s top personal honors. After a remarkable campaign for both club and national team, the Barcelona star returns to the spotlight alongside several of the game’s biggest names, with supporters set to decide who deserves the prestigious recognition. The race brings together elite performers from across Europe, but Yamal‘s presence has generated particular excitement after he came agonizingly close to victory last year. Having since added a World Cup title with Spain to his growing list of achievements, the teenage sensation enters this edition with even stronger momentum. Yamal has been nominated for the 2026 Onze d’Or, the annual award presented by French soccer magazine Onze Mondial to the world’s best player. The youngster finished second in the 2025 edition, losing to Ousmane Dembele by a margin of just 2.5% of the public vote, a result that also mirrored his runner-up finish in the Ballon d’Or standings. Unlike many major individual awards, the Onze d’Or places the final decision entirely in the hands of supporters. Fans vote directly through the magazine’s official website, giving global popularity and fan engagement a significant role in determining the winner. View this post on Instagram The prestigious award and this year’s contenders The Onze d’Or has been awarded since 1976, making it one of soccer’s longest-running individual honors. While journalists determine the Ballon d’Or winner, the Onze d’Or has traditionally relied on public voting, giving soccer supporters the final say. This year’s shortlist features some of the biggest stars in world soccer. Alongside Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, and Harry Kane, the nominees include Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Michael Olise, Bruno Fernandes, Joao Neves, William Saliba, Vitinha, and Declan Rice. LES 11 NOMMÉS POUR LE ONZE D’OR 2026 ! ✨Vote DÈS MAINTENANT juste ici ➡️ https://t.co/KoOUPmgLQ3 pic.twitter.com/B1qb2d7xJj— Onze Mondial (@OnzeMondial) July 29, 2026 The strength of the field reflects another highly competitive year in world soccer, with players representing some of Europe’s biggest clubs while also starring for their respective national teams throughout the season. Trophy closely associated with Lionel Messi and Barcelona Few players have left a greater mark on the Onze d’Or than Lionel Messi. The Argentine icon remains the competition’s most successful winner with four titles, cementing his place as one of the defining figures in the award’s history. Barcelona has enjoyed exceptional success in the competition over the decades. Former Camp Nou legends including Diego Maradona, Ronaldo Nazario, Thierry Henry, Ronaldinho, Hristo Stoichkov, Antoine Griezmann, and Ousmane Dembele have all lifted the trophy during their careers. That tradition gives Yamal another opportunity to continue Barcelona’s remarkable legacy in one of soccer’s oldest fan-voted honors.
Despite having won the 2026 World Cup, Ferran Torres does not seem to have a clear future at Barcelona. After the drama involving Yan Diomande and Real Madrid, the 26-year-old star is reportedly moving closer to PSG, with a formal offer already on the table. Ferran Torres has gone from being a player with little attention to being a player who has all the attention from several teams. After winning the 2026 World Cup, he seems decided to leave Barcelona, dragging out his renewal. Due to the possible signing of Yan Diomande by Real Madrid, the 26-year-old star is moving closer to Paris Saint-Germain this very summer, reportedly already having a contract offer on the table. Throughout the summer of 2026, PSG had set their sights on Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig. Being one of the biggest prospects, they were willing to pay a transfer fee of around €100M, plus add-ons. However, they have officially decided to pull out of the deal due to the high financial demands, with him now close to becoming a new Real Madrid player. Therefore, Ferran Torres seems to be the new priority. According to Luis Miguel Sanz, via Diario Sport, PSG are looking to reach a verbal agreement with Ferran Torres in the coming days. For this, they are open to offering him a four-season contract, along with a higher salary than the one he receives at Barcelona. If they manage to convince him, they would only have to negotiate with Barcelona, which would be open to selling him for a fee close to €50M. Despite the optimism of the French side, Barcelona continue working to convince Ferran to renew his contract. However, he is not very happy with his situation, as he reportedly feels left. In addition, the Spanish side would not be very open to matching the salary offer made by PSG, making it quite difficult. Along with this, the good relationship of the 26-year-old star with Luis Enrique would be a key factor in taking him away. Ferran Torres #7 of Spain celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal. Ferran Torres and Maghnes Akliouche are PSG’s backup options Ahead of the 2026-27 season, Paris Saint-Germain keep their offensive commitment clear: Désiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. However, the departures of Gonçalo Ramos, Kolo Muani, and Lee Kang-in mean they must reinforce the squad. Along with them, Bradley Barcola also seems decided to leave. Therefore, Ferran Torres and Maghnes Akliouche are reportedly the clear options to give depth to the bench. According to Luis Miguel Sanz, via Diario Sport, PSG already have an agreement with Maghnes Akliouche, who could leave AS Monaco for €50M. Both he and Ferran are capable of playing in the three attacking positions, making them essential for Luis Enrique. With this, they could be very important in Ligue 1, while also getting many minutes in the Champions League. Neither Ferran nor Maghnes would arrive to be starters at PSG, but rather to fight for a place in the starting lineup. However, the 26-year-old striker could be the one with the most doubts, as he would once again be a substitute. Despite this, the French side wants to finalize these agreements in the coming weeks, looking to have a complete roster from the start of the season.
The 2026 World Cup seems to have completely reshaped the Ballon d'Or race. Following the tournament, Harry Kane has taken the lead at the top of the rankings, while Lamine Yamal has moved up. Surprisingly, Lionel Messi has re-entered the race. After completing an outstanding season, several PSG stars such as Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Vitinha seemed to be gaining ground as Ballon d’Or contenders. However, the result of the 2026 World Cup seems to have completely transformed the picture. After clearly shining, Harry Kane seems to take the lead in the race, while Lamine Yamal has gained ground. In addition, Lionel Messi may return to the picture. Paris Saint-Germain won everything again during the 2025-26 season, making its stars candidates to win the Ballon d’Or. However, France and Portugal disappointed, not even reaching the tournament final. Although Ousmane Dembélé left his mark with his goalscoring, he seems to be falling out of the race after failing to lead his national team to the final. Instead, Harry Kane could take the lead in the rankings. Harry Kane has completed a truly outstanding season. At Bayern Munich, he managed to score 61 goals and provide seven assists, winning three domestic titles. In addition, he led his team to the UEFA Champions League semifinals. Carrying that form into the 2026 World Cup, he led his national team to a third-place finish, scoring six goals and providing one assist. With this in mind, he is the leader for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, as per Bleacher Report. Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi set for 2026 Ballon d’Or podium Despite not shining in the scoring side, Lamine Yamal stood out as one of Spain’s best players. Through his dribbling and passing, he helped end his national team’s 16-year trophy drought. Luis de la Fuente made him the central figure of the attack. In addition, he is coming off a solid season with Barcelona, scoring 24 goals and providing 18 assists. Because of this, he is expected to be in the 2026 Ballon d’Or podium. Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain and Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina. Lionel Messi surprised everyone with his performances at the World Cup. Despite being 39 years old, he was an undisputed starter, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. Following his outstanding performances with Argentina and Inter Miami, he is tipped to return to the Ballon d’Or podium, according to several outlets such as Bleacher Report, and others. However, he does not emerge as the leading candidate to win the trophy. Updated 2026 Ballon d’Or top 5 ranking After the World Cup concluded, the 2025-26 season came to an end, leaving very little time to determine the Ballon d’Or winner. According to Bleacher Report, Harry Kane emerges as the leading favorite after shining in every competition he has played in. While Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi are expected to complete the podium, there are two other players who could gain more importance in the coming days. Name1.Harry Kane (England and Bayern Munich)2.Lamine Yamal (Spain and FC Barcelona)3. Lionel Messi (Argentina and Inter Miami)4.Rodri Hernandez (Spain and Manchester City)5.Kylian Mbappé (France and Real Madrid)
After establishing himself among Europe's elite, the Paris Saint-Germain winger appeared destined to shine on soccer's biggest stage. Instead, he will be forced to watch from afar as the world's leading national team competes for the most prestigious trophy in the sport. With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, several of soccer’s biggest stars are preparing for what could be defining moments in their careers. Yet one of the game’s most exciting attacking talents, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, will not be among those taking center stage when the tournament begins in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The absence comes as a surprise to many casual fans, given the extraordinary campaign Kvaratskhelia has just completed. After establishing himself among Europe’s elite, the Paris Saint-Germain winger appeared destined to shine on soccer’s biggest stage. Instead, he will be forced to watch from afar as the world’s leading national team competes for the most prestigious trophy in the sport. In fact, the 2025-26 campaign may go down as the finest season of Kvaratskhelia’s career so far. The Georgian forward enjoyed remarkable success with the Parisians and further strengthened his reputation as one of the most dangerous wingers at the moment. After completing a high-profile move from Napoli to PSG in January 2025, Kvaratskhelia quickly became one of the key figures in Luis Enrique’s squad. He helped PSG win Ligue 1, captured the UEFA Champions League title, and was named the Champions League Player of the Season. He registered 10 goals and six assists in 16 Champions League appearances while also contributing eight goals and four assists in Ligue 1. The winger also achieved a unique milestone by becoming the first player in Champions League history to record either a goal or an assist in seven consecutive knockout-stage matches. His influence was particularly evident during PSG’s run to European glory, where he consistently delivered in the biggest moments. Why isn’t Kvaratskhelia playing at the World Cup? Despite all of his club success, Kvaratskhelia’s World Cup dream has been halted by circumstances beyond his control. The reason for his absence is that Georgia failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While many of soccer’s traditional powers successfully secured places at the expanded 48-team tournament, Georgia could not navigate a difficult qualifying campaign. The nation that captured the imagination of fans during Euro 2024 was unable to repeat that success on the road to North America. Kvaratskhelia did his part during qualification, scoring six important goals in 12 games and attempting to inspire his country. However, Georgia struggled for consistency throughout the campaign and ultimately fell short of securing either automatic qualification or a playoff route. 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group E The disappointment is particularly painful considering how much excitement Willy Sagnol’s side generated during its historic appearance at Euro 2024. That tournament marked the nation’s first major international competition, and Kvaratskhelia was the driving force behind a memorable run to the knockout rounds. Georgia’s qualification campaign falls short The qualifying group proved challenging for the Georgian national team. Despite flashes of promise, results simply did not go their way often enough. Georgia finished behind Spain and Turkey in its qualifying section, leaving the national team without a ticket to the World Cup. Several disappointing defeats proved costly, including a heavy loss away from home that effectively ended hopes of qualification. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Georgia gestures during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers Many observers felt Kvaratskhelia carried an enormous burden throughout the campaign. While Georgia possesses several talented players, few can match the PSG star’s ability to decide matches on his own. His dazzling dribbling, creativity, and eye for goal frequently kept Ge
Despite being one of the best players of the season, Lamine Yamal lost the Ballon d’Or award to Ousmane Dembélé, surprising everyone. After this, the 18-year-old star made a curious reflection on not having won it, seeing it as a boost for his career. At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has managed to become one of the best players in the world, shining with Barcelona. Despite being one of the standout performers of the season, he lost the Ballon d’Or award to Ousmane Dembélé, surprising all the fans. Far from being discouraged by this setback, the 18-year-old star showed great maturity, reflecting on it and using the defeat to push himself toward his best version. “I thought I was going to win it that day, but because of many things that happened that day, I think it was very good that Dembélé won it. Also, for my personal growth, it wasn’t the right moment for me to win it because I was very young and I wouldn’t have appreciated what it means to win a Ballon d’Or. In addition, I get along very well with Ousmane… It helped me get back up as I wasn’t in a good moment and matured a lot,” Lamine said on his Youtube channel. Even though Lamine Yamal did not win the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona, he significantly improved his numbers in the current season. After playing 45 matches, he has managed to score 24 goals and provide 18 assists, ranking among the most productive players in the world. However, failing to win Europe’s top competition with the Blaugrana appears to be reducing his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or. Despite suffering four injuries during the current season, Lamine managed to overcome these setbacks, showing great mental strength. In addition, he became Barcelona’s creative focal point amid the absences of Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski’s drop in form. For this reason, he arrives at the 2026 World Cup in top shape, aiming to prove his ability with Spain and lead them to the title after 16 years. Lamine Yamal of Spain looks on during the UEFA Nations League 2025. Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or hopes may hinge on 2026 World Cup Throughout the 2025–26 season, Lamine Yamal has indeed been among the most productive players. However, PSG’s UEFA Champions League victory gives Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia a significant advantage in the race for the Ballon d’Or. Alongside them, Harry Kane could also emerge as another clear favorite. With this in mind, the 18-year-old star’s chances of winning the award could depend on the 2026 World Cup. Not having won the UEFA Champions League, Lamine is not the clear favorite to win the Ballon d’Or. Despite this, he could change everything if he emerges as the tournament’s top scorer or wins the trophy for Spain, as that could push him to lead the race. With the Georgian not featuring in the World Cup, only a victory for England or France in the tournament could distance him from the award, as his impact at Barcelona has already made it clear that he deserves to win it.
Paris Saint-Germain won the Champions League over Arsenal in a dramatic penalty shootout. In a final that had all the tension possible, Paris Saint-Germain ended up winning the Champions League over Arsenal in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw following extra time. It was logical that there would not be the same kind of difference as last year, when Paris Saint-Germain beat Inter 5-0 in the final. This was much different, to the point that they had to come from behind after Havertz gave Arsenal the lead in the opening minutes with a great goal. In the second half, Paris Saint-Germain continued pushing until Kvaratskhelia was brought down by Mosquera in the box for a penalty that Dembélé converted to level the score. Not much happened after that and they finished tied. With key players being substituted on both teams because of how tired they were, not much was left in action, so they went to penalties. In the shootout, Eze missed for Arsenal and Nuno Mendes missed for PSG. The series continued with PSG leading 4-3, and Arsenal needed to score their final kick to stay alive, but Magalhães sent his effort high over the crossbar, and Paris Saint-Germain won the Champions League.
The World Cup is about to see many of the Paris Saint-Germain players who won the Champions League over Arsenal. The Champions League is over after a dramatic final, so now it is time for the World Cup. With Paris Saint-Germain winning the title for the second consecutive time as they beat Arsenal in a penalty shootout, many of their players will not have time to rest because they must represent their countries. There is no denying they should see many of their players next month. The one leading the way is obviously Ousmane Dembélé, who was picked by Didier Deschamps to seek revenge for France after the last edition’s loss. His presence will not be the only one. In the French team there are more players who come from Paris Saint-Germain, with Lucas Hernandez, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola joining the Ballon d’Or winner. World Cup players from out of France A top team like Paris Saint-Germain logically has players from different countries who are worthy of their national teams. The other player of huge importance for Luis Enrique is Vitinha, who was a secure presence in Portugal’s list. Vitinha should be a very important player for Portugal (Carl Recine/Getty Images) The strong list of players from that country includes a decisive piece for Paris Saint-Germain like left back Nuno Mendes, who may share a team with João Neves, with Gonçalo Ramos also called up. From the starting lineup of the final, only winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and goalkeeper Matvey Safonov will not be at the World Cup, with Achraf Hakimi representing Morocco and Marquinhos leading Brazil as captains. More players called There are more PSG players who will continue into the tournament, with Willian Pacho representing Ecuador and Fabián Ruiz part of Spain’s squad. Lee Kang-in has also been called up for South Korea, while Ibrahim Mbaye completes the group after being selected by Senegal.
The Cooligans go LIVE with instant reaction to Paris Saint-Germain F.C. winning back-to-back UEFA Champions League Final titles, breaking down whether Arsenal F.C. approached the match too cautiously and diving into the internet’s biggest reactions to the result. The guys also spotlight Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as Player of the Game, debate whether domestic league difficulty played a role in the final, and ask the big question: has Luis Enrique become the best manager in European football right now?
Vitinha and Ousmane Dembele were among the central figures, but the Champions League final also created concern far beyond club soccer. Thus, for Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal and Kylian Mbappe's France, the clash delivered mixed emotions. The UEFA Champions League final delivered drama, tension, and concern in equal measure as Paris Saint-Germain defeated Arsenal on penalties to retain the European crown. Vitinha and Ousmane Dembele were among the central figures, but the Champions League final also created concern far beyond club soccer. Thus, for Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Portugal and Kylian Mbappe‘s France, the clash delivered mixed emotions. PSG eventually celebrated a second consecutive Champions League title after overcoming Arsenal in a gripping contest that ended 1-1 after extra time. Yet amid the celebrations, attention quickly shifted toward the fitness of Vitinha and Dembele after both players were forced off before the final whistle. The final began perfectly for Arsenal as Kai Havertz struck after only six minutes to hand Mikel Arteta’s side an early advantage. The Gunners then produced a disciplined defensive display that frustrated PSG for much of the opening hour. Luis Enrique’s side dominated possession but struggled to create clear opportunities against one of Europe’s strongest defensive units. Arsenal held firm until a decisive moment arrived midway through the second half. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia won a penalty after being brought down inside the area, allowing Ousmane Dembele to equalize from the spot in the 65th minute. The French forward calmly converted to bring PSG back into the contest and set up a tense finale. Neither side could find a winner during normal time or extra time. The match ultimately went to penalties, where PSG held its nerve to secure a second consecutive Champions League title and become the first club since Real Madrid to successfully defend the trophy. Injury concerns emerge during extra time Despite the celebrations, concern quickly spread among supporters of both Portugal and France. Dembele was the first player to raise alarms after requesting a substitution shortly after the end of normal time. The reigning Ballon d’Or holder appeared uncomfortable and struggled physically before eventually leaving the field. Vitinha and Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain Initial fears centered around a possible muscle injury, particularly given the timing so close to the World Cup. Reports suggested there was concern about a potential issue in the back of his thigh, an injury that could have sidelined him for several weeks. Vitinha later followed him off the pitch during extra time. The Portuguese midfielder appeared to be dealing with a leg problem and was unable to continue, forcing Luis Enrique into another late change. With the World Cup now only weeks away, both incidents immediately became major talking points for Portugal and France. What is Ousmane Dembele’s condition? Fortunately for France, the situation surrounding Dembele appears less serious than initially feared. According to reports from L’Equipe, Dembele informed PSG staff after leaving the field that he was suffering from cramps rather than a muscular injury. The PSG forward was unable to continue after the 93rd minute and was replaced by Goncalo Ramos. However, his ability to leave the field under his own power offered encouragement. That development will come as welcome news for Didier Deschamps and the France national team. Dembele remains one of the country’s most influential attacking players and is expected to play a central role in France’s World Cup campaign. France opens its tournament against Senegal on June 16 and will also face Iraq and Norway during the group stage. Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain shakes hands with Goncalo Ramos as he leaves the field What is the verdict on Vitinha? The news surrounding Vitinha appears even more encouraging. Despite limping off during extra time, the Portuguese midfielder did n
While much of the attention has focused on tactics, key players, and recent form, another intriguing question surrounds the occasion: how Arsenal’s win, draw, or loss against PSG could shape the outcome of the 2025 UEFA Champions League final and define the legacy of both clubs. The UEFA Champions League final has arrived, and with it comes a fascinating showdown between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain. The match at Budapest’s Puskás Arena carries enormous significance for two clubs that have climbed to the summit of European soccer in recent years. The Champions League has rarely presented such an evenly matched contest. Historically, Arsenal and PSG have been inseparable in their competitive meetings. Across seven previous encounters, both clubs have recorded two victories each and three draws, highlighting just how little separates them. Their most recent meetings came during last season’s semifinal, when PSG edged Arsenal 3-1 on aggregate thanks to goals from Fabian Ruiz, Achraf Hakimi, and Ousmane Dembele. Arsenal, however, had previously defeated the French champion 2-0 during the league phase, proving that either side is capable of gaining the upper hand. The final also pits two contrasting soccer philosophies against one another. PSG enters the match as the defending European champion under Luis Enrique, armed with a dynamic attack featuring Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Desire Doue. The Gunners arrive as Premier League champions, boasting the competition’s strongest defensive record and an unbeaten European campaign. What happens if Arsenal wins against PSG? An Arsenal victory would complete one of the greatest seasons in the club’s history. After ending a 22-year wait for the Premier League title, lifting the Champions League trophy would allow the North London club to secure a remarkable domestic and European double. Such a triumph would also serve as redemption after last season’s semifinal defeat to PSG. Arteta’s project has steadily progressed over several years, and conquering Europe would validate the club’s long-term vision. The defensive partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel, supported by goalkeeper David Raya, has been central to the club’s European run. The Gunners have conceded only six goals in the competition and have kept more clean sheets than any other side. Viktor Gyoekeres of Arsenal celebrates with his teammates after scoring against Atletico Madrid. A victory would also elevate several players into club folklore. Viktor Gyokeres, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard would become part of a generation remembered for delivering Arsenal’s most prestigious achievement on the continental stage. What’s more, it would end PSG’s dreams of achieving back-to-back Champions League trophies. What happens if Arsenal draws against PSG? A draw after regulation time would underline just how closely matched these teams are. If the score is level when the referee blows the final whistle after 90 minutes, the tournament will not end in a draw, and there will be no replay. Instead, the match moves into the standard tie-breaking procedures, beginning with extra time, where the teams play two 15-minute halves. If one side is ahead at the end of the additional 30 minutes, they are declared the winner and lift the trophy. However, if the score remains tied after extra time, the champion is determined through a penalty shootout. Many observers expect a tactical chess match between Arteta and Luis Enrique. Arsenal thrives on defensive organization and controlled possession, while PSG has demonstrated the ability to alternate between aggressive pressing and patient ball retention depending on the circumstances. The possibility of extra time could particularly favor PSG due to the freshness of its squad. Luis Enrique has rotated heavily throughout the season, ensuring that many of his key players arrive in Budapest with fewer minutes in their legs than their Arsenal counterparts. At the same time, A
Ousmane Dembele converted a penalty kick to score the equalizer for PSG against Arsenal in the Champions League final. Ousmane Dembele delivered when his team needed him most, converting from the penalty spot to level the score for PSG against Arsenal in the Champions League final at the Puskas Arena. Following a build-up play from PSG, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia drove into Arsenal‘s box, where Spanish defender Christian Mosquera committed a foul while attempting to win the ball, resulting in a penalty. Dembele stepped up to the spot and sent a precise strike past David Raya into the far corner of the net. The equalizer at the Puskas Arena keeps PSG‘s hopes alive as they look to capture the European championship for the second consecutive year. With this goal, the French forward reached eight tallies in this Champions League campaign, making him the team’s second-highest scorer behind Kvaratskhelia, who leads the squad with 10 goals. ¡GOOOOOL DEL PSG! ¡MOSQUERA COMETE PENAL! 🤯🔥Terrible error del jugador del Arsenal, Dembélé anota desde los once pasos y pone el 1-1 pic.twitter.com/oCbtx5oY1K— TUDN USA (@TUDNUSA) May 30, 2026 PSG chasing back-to-back Champions League titles PSG have the opportunity to join a select group of clubs that have won the Champions League in consecutive seasons. Following their 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the 2025 final, the French side can secure its first back-to-back title by defeating Arsenal. In the modern UEFA Champions League era, which began with the tournament’s rebrand for the 1992–93 season, Real Madrid is the only club to successfully defend its title. The Spanish giants captured three consecutive championships under manager Zinedine Zidane, winning in 2016, 2017, and 2018. Prior to the tournament’s rebranding, several clubs achieved back-to-back titles during the European Cup era, including Benfica, Inter Milan, Ajax, Nottingham Forest, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, AC Milan, and Real Madrid.
Arsenal will be without Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres in their starting lineup for the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. Arsenal are all set to take on Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League final this Saturday at the Puskas Arena in Budapest. Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres will not be part of the starting lineup, with Mikel Arteta opting to leave both players on the bench. The Spanish coach has chosen to start Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield, in the role Eze typically occupies, alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. As a result, the Gunners will feature a more defensive profile in that area of the pitch as they look to counter PSG’s attacking firepower. Up front, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard retain their places on the wings. At center forward, Arteta has opted for Kai Havertz, meaning Gyokeres will begin the match among the substitutes. Gyokeres’ Champions League numbers The decision to leave Viktor Gyokeres on the bench is particularly noteworthy considering he had started every Champions League knockout-stage match for Arsenal up to this point. The Swedish striker started 11 of Arsenal’s 14 matches during their run in the competition, coming off the bench once and missing the other two due to injury. 🔴 𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠𝙉𝙀𝙒𝙎 ⚪️Your Champions League final line-up.COME ON YOU GUNNERS!!— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 30, 2026 Gyokeres is Arsenal’s second-leading scorer in this season’s Champions League campaign with five goals, trailing only Gabriel Martinelli, who has six. Kai Havertz, who will lead the line for Arsenal in Saturday’s final, appeared in just five Champions League matches because of injury issues and scored three goals. Luis Enrique sticks with his trusted lineup While Mikel Arteta made changes to Arsenal’s starting lineup that differ from the selections he had used throughout the earlier stages of the UEFA Champions League, Luis Enrique has opted to place his trust in the players who guided Paris Saint-Germain to the final. As a result, PSG’s starting XI features no major surprises compared to previous matches. The Spanish coach’s approach is clear: rely on the ball control and composure of midfielders Vitinha, Joao Neves and Fabian Ruiz, while maximizing the attacking talent of forwards Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Introducing your Parisian Starting XI ❤️💙#UCLFinal | @EASPORTSFC pic.twitter.com/QGGfZCvk0e— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) May 30, 2026
One enters the occasion chasing a place among the game's modern dynasties, while the other stands on the verge of achieving something it has never managed before. The biggest night in European soccer has arrived, with Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal preparing to meet in Budapest for a final that could define an era for both clubs. One enters the occasion chasing a place among the game’s modern dynasties, while the other stands on the verge of achieving something it has never managed before. For PSG, the opportunity is enormous. Luis Enrique’s side is aiming to become only the second club in the modern Champions League era to successfully defend the trophy, a feat achieved only by Real Madrid between 2016 and 2018. Arsenal, meanwhile, arrives carrying the momentum of ending a 22-year wait for the Premier League title and now hopes to crown an unforgettable campaign with another landmark achievement. The final will take place at Budapest’s Puskas Arena, where 67,000 spectators are expected to witness a clash between Europe’s most prolific attack and one of its strongest defensive units. The encounter has all the ingredients of a classic, with contrasting styles, elite talent, and major historical stakes on the line. PSG chasing place among Europe’s greats PSG’s rise under Luis Enrique has transformed the club into one of the continent’s most feared teams. The French champion arrives as the defending European titleholder after last season’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Inter in the final. Only Real Madrid has managed to retain the trophy since the competition was rebranded as the Champions League in 1992. Clubs such as Milan, Ajax, Juventus, and Manchester United all fell short when attempting to defend their crowns. Victory would also further elevate Luis Enrique’s legacy. The Spanish coach is seeking a third Champions League or European Cup triumph, which would place him among an elite group of managers alongside Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola, Zinedine Zidane, and Bob Paisley. The French outfit has also enjoyed recent success against English opposition. It has won its last five Champions League knockout ties against clubs from England and defeated Arsenal in the previous season’s semifinals. Arsenal’s chance to complete a dream season For Arsenal, the final represents an opportunity decades in the making. The London club has never lifted Europe’s premier club trophy and has reached the final only once before, losing to Barcelona in 2006. Now, after finally ending its long wait for Premier League glory, Mikel Arteta’s team is one win away from completing what many supporters would regard as the greatest season in club history. The Gunners have built their success on discipline, defensive organization, and exceptional efficiency from set pieces. Since the beginning of the 2023-24 campaign, Arsenal has scored 64 goals from set-piece situations, at least nine more than any other club in Europe’s top five leagues. Its defensive record has been equally impressive. The Premier League champion remains unbeaten in this season’s Champions League and has conceded just six goals in 14 matches. Goalkeeper David Raya has also matched the competition record with nine clean sheets. PSG vs Arsenal: Comfirmed lineups PSG confirmed lineup (4-3-3): Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves, Fabian Ruiz; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia. Arsenal confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): Raya; Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Rice, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Odegaard, Trossard; Havertz.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, an explosive right-footed left winger, is one of football's most dangerous players and Arsenal will need to keep him quiet in Saturday's Champions League final (17:00 BST). PSG under Luis Enrique are a very fluid side but follow certain rules as outlined in this tactical analysis of the side earlier in the season.
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