Former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson described it as "so sad" that Gabriel's missed penalty was the decisive one because he has been "so influential" for the Gunners this season.
Upson told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast: "It's really difficult to see because he has just carried so much this season – his attitude, his presence, personality, fight. Gabriel has brought it all and he leaves it out there every time.
"To be brave enough to step up, knowing that penalty-taking is probably not an amazing part of his game, [shows] he's got the mentality and the mettle.
"You can tell he is already refocusing and coming to terms with it, as you have to. He's got a huge tournament to play for his country in the summer, but it's so sad it had to be him. He has been so influential for Arsenal this season.
On the game itself, Upson added: "If you start to break it down on the numbers, percentages, possession, passes and attempts at goal, you would think it was a one-sided boxing match.
"In many aspects it was, but it was designed that way on purpose to achieve a goal, which was to win the Champions League. And it was inches away – it was within touching distance."
Listen to the Football Daily podcast on BBC Sounds
PSG beat Arsenal in shootout to retain Champions League
Slot sacking completes a remarkable fall from grace
What now for Vinicius Jr after Mourinho signs Real Madrid deal?
A witty new drama with sun, sea and suppressed resentment
From iPods to AI: How streaming has changed music
Zoe Ball traces her ancestors from Scotland to Cornwall
The Mexican song that captivated lovers during World War II
Slot sacking completes a remarkable fall from grace
A team in need of change – why Liverpool parted with Slot
From 'bling-bling' & disputes to unity: The transformation of PSG
Inside Raya's fairytale rise from non-league to Champions League final
Every VAR error: How Arsenal escaped red cards and penalties
Emotional Littler underlines greatness after almost quitting Premier League
French Open men's draw blown wide open – who can capitalise on Sinner exit?
Rice, Shaw and McInnes among BBC Football Awards winners
Weekly sports quiz: Whose overhead kick is on a new £20 note?
Arteta's reboot, banishing 'banter era', and why Arsenal must strengthen again – Kroenke
Travelling solo and sharing rooms – what is life like on tennis’ lower rung?
Why Putellas to London City would be biggest signing in WSL history
The footballer setting record straight after 46 years
How Toone is navigating grief through football
Copyright © 2026 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.
About the Author
