UCL: Arsenal defender, Mosquera opens up on error that led to PSG’s equaliser

Arsenal defender, Cristhian Mosquera has reflected on the error that allowed PSG to equalize in the Champions League final last Saturday. 

The Gunners ultimately lost 4-3 in a penalty shootout after the match ended in a draw following extra time.

Mikel Arteta’s squad surged ahead early in the fifth minute when Kai Havertz struck a powerful shot into the top of the net.

The Premier League champions appeared nearly unassailable at the back, maintaining their lead until half-time.

PSG persisted in their quest for an equalizer, which materialized due to a mistake by Mosquera.

The 21-year-old, who was selected in the starting lineup over Jurrien Timber, lunged from behind and fouled Khvicha Kvaratskhelia within the penalty area.

The referee awarded a penalty, which Ousmane Dembele successfully converted.

Following the equalizer, Mosquera was substituted for Timber, and the north London side ultimately lost the penalty shootout after misses from Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Magalhaes.

Despite the defeat in the Champions League final, Arsenal proceeded with their open-top bus parade to celebrate their Premier League championship. Mosquera addressed his mistake following the parade.

The Spaniard emphasized that, although the experience is painful, he recognizes that it will ultimately strengthen him. He also expressed his faith in God and remarked on how fortunate he feels to be part of the Arsenal team.

He wrote on Instagram, “Wow… How swiftly everything can shift in just a few moments. When it seems like everything is going perfectly, just as you have envisioned since childhood, suddenly, in an instant, one action alters everything.

“I have dedicated my life to dreaming of moments like this, but it did not unfold as I had hoped. And that is when God reminded me that faith is not contingent upon the final outcome I achieve, but rather on how I continue to trust after facing a setback. This setback, despite the pain it brings, will ultimately make me stronger.”