He could have been left lamenting his missed opportunities. Introduced in the 83rd minute of the Champions League final, which Paris Saint-Germain ultimately clinched against Arsenal on Saturday in Budapest (1-1, 4-3 t.a.b.), Bradley Barcola found himself with two golden chances to secure victory for the capital club before the decisive penalty shootout.

The 23-year-old forward was first denied by a quick intervention from David Raya in the 85th minute. Then, deep into second-half stoppage time (90+7), the former Lyon player had a clear sight of goal after being played in behind the Gunners’ defense. However, following a somewhat erratic dribble, his powerful shot from a tight angle drifted wide of the target, missing the chance to be the match-winner.

Despite these near misses, the outcome was ultimately favorable for Paris Saint-Germain, who went on to lift the prestigious trophy for the second consecutive year. Barcola, reflecting on his personal performance, took to his Instagram account later that evening to make light of his squandered chances.

“Ma3lich, we won”

Accompanying a photograph of himself alongside Ousmane Dembélé, both holding the coveted trophy, the French international penned a caption that read: “I should have killed the game, but ma3lich (an Arabic expression meaning ‘it’s not a big deal’ or ‘never mind’), we won.”

It’s worth noting that the winger did not participate in the penalty shootout. His involvement proved unnecessary, as Paris Saint-Germain secured their victory with only one missed spot-kick, claiming another title in Europe’s most prestigious club competition.