120 minutes of brilliance couldn't save Gabriel.

Gabriel Magalhaes' missed penalty in the Champions League final could become a worrying blemish on his record, just two weeks before Brazil's World Cup 2026 campaign.

Gabriel Magalhaes played almost perfectly throughout the 120 minutes of the Champions League final between Arsenal and PSG. The Brazilian center-back consistently appeared at the right time to neutralize dangerous attacks from the opposition, won numerous challenges, and was a reliable barrier in front of David Raya's goal.

But in the tense penalty shootout, his shot flew over the crossbar, ending Arsenal's first-ever Champions League dream. The image of Gabriel standing silently, covering his face and pulling his shirt over his head after the defeat, quickly spread across social media. It was the reaction of a player who understood the weight of a mistake in the biggest game of the season.

The problem is that the 2026 World Cup is just around the corner. Gabriel is not only a key player for Arsenal, but also the first-choice defender alongside Marquinhos for the Brazilian national team under Carlo Ancelotti.

After an outstanding season in the Premier League, the 28-year-old center-back is considered one of the most important links in the "Selecao's" ambition to conquer the World Cup. Therefore, what Brazil needs to focus on right now is not Gabriel's technical ability, but his mental state.

Football history has seen many stars carry their anxieties from club level to the national team. Fortunately for Brazil, Carlo Ancelotti is renowned for his ability to manage players.

Throughout his career, the Italian coach has always been highly regarded for his ability to protect his players after major defeats. That experience will be invaluable in the coming days.

When he joins the Brazilian national team in the US, Gabriel will need to quickly put aside his disappointment and focus on the World Cup.

Brazil still possesses one of the strongest defenses in the tournament. But to turn that strength into a real advantage, they need a confident, resilient Gabriel who is no longer haunted by his missed penalty in Budapest.

Source: https://znews.vn/120-phut-xuat-sac-khong-cuu-noi-gabriel-post1655680.html