The UEFA Champions League semi-final showdown between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) promises to be a thrilling contest as two European heavyweights clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night. With both clubs eyeing a spot in the final, this first-leg encounter could set the tone for an epic two-legged tie.
Arsenal have returned to the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since the 2008-09 season. Mikel Arteta’s men arrive in red-hot form, having dismantled reigning champions Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate in the quarter-finals. The Gunners are unbeaten in their last 12 games across competitions, showcasing consistency, creativity, and steel.
Their most recent result — a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace in the Premier League — saw goals from Jakub Kiwior and Leandro Trossard, both of whom are expected to feature in Tuesday’s lineup. With a balanced mix of youth and experience, Arsenal are proving to be one of the most dangerous teams left in the competition.
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Of, Trossard, Martinelli
Paris Saint-Germain return to the Champions League semi-finals for the second consecutive year, aiming to go one step further under Luis Enrique. After edging past Aston Villa 5-4 on aggregate in the last round, PSG will need to raise their game to match Arsenal’s intensity.
However, their recent form has been patchy. The Ligue 1 leaders suffered their first league defeat of the season on Friday — a 3-1 loss to Nice. While Fabián Ruiz managed to level the score with help from Ousmane Dembélé, PSG conceded twice in the second half.
The Parisians boast immense attacking firepower, with Bradley Barcola, Kvaratskhelia, and Dembele capable of unlocking any defense on their day.
Givenong; Judge, Marquinhos, It is, Mendes; Ruiz, Vitinha, Neves; Barcola, Dembele, KVARATSKHELIA
With their current form and home advantage, Arsenal slightly edge out as favourites in this first leg. Their high-tempo pressing, combined with sharp attacking transitions, could trouble a PSG side that has looked vulnerable defensively in recent weeks.
Predicted Score: Arsenal 2-1 PSG
