The UEFA Champions League semi-finals reach a dramatic climax as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) welcome Arsenal to the Parc des Princes. With PSG carrying a 1-0 lead from the first leg, this is a make-or-break night for both clubs as they battle for a spot in the prestigious final.
First Leg Recap: PSG Strike First
In the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, PSG came out strong and stunned Arsenal with an early goal from Ousmane Dembélé. The French winger latched onto a through ball and finished with clinical precision past David Raya. Despite Arsenal dominating possession and creating multiple chances, Gianluigi Donnarumma was exceptional between the sticks, keeping a clean sheet and preserving PSG’s lead.
Controversy also played its part, as Arsenal had a goal ruled out by VAR for a marginal offside. The 1-0 result gives PSG a narrow but vital edge heading into the return leg in Paris.
Match Preview: What to Expect at Parc des Princes
- Date: Wednesday, 7 May 2025
- Kick-off: 20:00 BST / 21:00 CET / 03:00 AWST (8 May)
- Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris
- First Leg Result: Arsenal 0-1 PSG
Both teams come into this match with high expectations. PSG have already wrapped up Ligue 1 and rested key players over the weekend. Arsenal, meanwhile, are in second position in Premier League after Liverpool won the title race but have they have their sights firmly set on a historic Champions League final.
Predictions & Betting Insights
- Final Score Prediction: PSG 2-1 Arsenal
- Over/Under Goals: Over 2.5 goals
- Both Teams to Score: Yes
- Total Corners: Over 10.5
- Yellow Cards: Over 3.5
- VAR Reviews: Very likely, considering the first-leg drama and stakes involved
Tactical Overview
Paris Saint-Germain
PSG are expected to line up with their usual fluid 4-3-3, with Ousmane Dembélé providing the attacking threat on the flanks. Luis Enrique is likely to emphasize quick transitions and wing play, targeting Arsenal’s full-backs with speed.
Dembélé, the first-leg hero, is fit and firing, while Gianluigi Donnarumma’s presence in goal gives PSG a strong defensive foundation. Watch for PSG to exploit any space left by Arsenal pushing forward.
Arsenal
Mikel Arteta’s side need to score—and fast. Expect Arsenal to start aggressively, possibly switching to a 4-2-3-1 with Ødegaard at the heart of creativity and Declan Rice shielding the defense. The return of Thomas Partey allows Rice more freedom to press and support attacks.
Saka and Martinelli will aim to stretch PSG’s defense, while Leandro Trossard may be used as a wildcard off the bench if Arsenal are chasing the game late on.
Key Players to Watch
- Ousmane Dembélé (PSG) – Scored the winner in the first leg and remains a constant threat with his pace and dribbling.
- Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG) – Heroic in the first leg; he’ll need to be sharp again to stop Arsenal’s attack.
- Declan Rice (Arsenal) – His energy and leadership will be vital in midfield.
- Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal) – Arsenal’s captain must control the tempo and deliver in a high-pressure setting.
Head-to-Head Stats
- Total Meetings: 6
- PSG Wins: 1
- Arsenal Wins: 2
- Draws: 3
Before this season, PSG had never beaten Arsenal in European competition—until that first leg in London. Can Arsenal respond and reclaim dominance?
The Stakes: Road to the Final
For PSG, this could be their best shot in years to finally win their elusive Champions League title. They’ve already won Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France, making a treble a real possibility.
For Arsenal, it’s a chance to reach their first UCL final since 2006. Arteta’s young side has impressed in Europe this season, and a comeback win in Paris would mark one of the club’s greatest modern achievements.
