London is buzzing as Arsenal welcomes French giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal at Emirates Stadium. This clash between two of Europe’s top football clubs promises excitement, with Arsenal chasing their first-ever Champions League title and PSG aiming for glory.
Recent History Between Arsenal and PSG
The two teams last met on October 1, 2024, in a group stage match. Arsenal won 2-0 at home, thanks to first-half goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. However, PSG have improved since then, especially after manager Luis Enrique’s bold decision to bench star striker Ousmane Dembele for that game due to disciplinary issues. Dembele has been in top form ever since, making PSG even more dangerous.
How They Got Here
Arsenal have been unstoppable in the Champions League this season. They crushed PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate in the round of 16 and then shocked defending champions Real Madrid, winning 5-1 on aggregate in the quarterfinals.
PSG’s journey has been just as impressive. They pulled off a massive upset by beating Premier League leaders Liverpool in the round of 16, winning on penalties after a 1-1 draw over two legs. In the quarterfinals, they edged out Aston Villa 5-4 on aggregate to reach their third Champions League semifinal in five years.
Team News: Arsenal
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has some tough choices to make. Midfielder Thomas Partey is suspended for this match, and Mikel Merino is likely to step in, with Leandro Trossard moving to the forward line. Unfortunately, injuries are a concern. Jorginho (rib injury) is expected to miss the game, while defenders Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori (both knee injuries) are doubtful. Long-term absences include Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Takehiro Tomiyasu, who are out for the season.
Team News: PSG
PSG are in a rare position with no injuries heading into this match. Despite a surprising 3-1 loss to Nice in Ligue 1, which ended their 30-game unbeaten streak, Luis Enrique is expected to stick with a similar starting lineup. The only change might see Bradley Barcola replace Desire Doue in midfield.
What to Expect
Both teams are in top form and full of attacking talent. Arsenal will rely on their home crowd at Emirates to give them an edge, while PSG’s confidence is sky-high after their strong Champions League run. With no major injuries for PSG and Arsenal missing key players, this could be a tight contest.
Fans can expect a thrilling match as these two dynamic teams battle for a spot in the Champions League final. Kickoff is set for Tuesday, April 29, 2025, and football fans won’t want to miss it!