By Reuben Olita
Anti-Arsenal supporters poured into the streets of Amagoro on Saturday night to celebrate Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League victory and Arsenal’s failure to lift the coveted European trophy.
The match ended 1-1 after normal and extra time, forcing a penalty shootout that PSG won 4-3 in a dramatic contest.
Arsenal took an early lead through Kai Havertz in the sixth minute before Ousmane Dembélé leveled the scores from the penalty spot in the 65th minute. The match remained deadlocked, setting the stage for a tense shootout.
Arsenal’s hopes were dashed when Gabriel blasted his decisive penalty over the bar, while Eberechi Eze had also missed earlier in the shootout, handing PSG the advantage and ultimately the title.
The defeat left Arsenal fans devastated as they watched what could have been a historic night for the club slip away. Supporters who had gathered at Jombi’s Hall and Stone Bridge Pub in Amagoro left disappointed after the final whistle.
Meanwhile, rival fans celebrated across the town, chanting “Wantam” as they marched along the Amagoro-Bungoma Highway, reveling in Arsenal’s misfortune and the prospect of avoiding months of bragging from their rivals.
PSG supporter Emman Ongiro said the victory had silenced Arsenal fans.
“We have beaten this ‘Wantam’ side. They have finally seen dust against PSG,” he remarked.
Another supporter, Elbo Chesetu, said Arsenal’s defeat spared rival fans from enduring endless celebrations.
“If Arsenal had won the trophy, their supporters would have made life difficult for us. They are very boastful,” he said.
Malaba Central Ward MCA aspirant and ardent Arsenal supporter Edwin Enarach, however, praised the Gunners for their spirited performance despite the heartbreak.
“I blame coach Mikel Arteta for some tactical decisions, especially during the set-piece situations. However, penalties can go either way. We should still applaud Arsenal for displaying good football throughout the competition,” he said.
