Arsenal FC head to Paris for the decisive second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), trailing 1–0 on aggregate after a tightly contested first leg at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners face a monumental task as they aim to reach their first UCL final since 2006.
The high-stakes clash is set for May 8 at the Parc des Princes, with a place in the final at Wembley on June 1 on the line.
⚽ First Leg Recap
- Score: Arsenal 0 – 1 PSG
- Goal: Kylian Mbappé (78’)
- Venue: Emirates Stadium, London
Despite dominating possession for long stretches, Arsenal were unable to break down PSG’s well-drilled back line. A late counterattack led by Kylian Mbappé handed the French giants the advantage heading into the return fixture.
🔍 Tactical Outlook
Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta is expected to adopt a high-intensity press, with Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and Bukayo Saka pivotal in midfield and transition play. The potential return of Gabriel Jesus from injury could give Arsenal more fluidity in attack.
PSG, under Luis Enrique, will likely rely on pace and precision through their front three: Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Vitinha, while midfield anchor Warren Zaïre-Emery is expected to play a key role in controlling tempo.
🗣️ Pre-Match Comments
Mikel Arteta (Arsenal):
“We know what’s at stake. We’ve prepared all season for these moments. We’re going to Paris to fight for everything.”
Luis Enrique (PSG):
“We’re halfway there, but nothing is done. Arsenal are a strong side. We’ll need to be perfect to reach Wembley.”
📅 Match Details
- Fixture: PSG vs Arsenal (UCL Semi-Final – 2nd Leg)
- Date: May 8, 2025
- Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris
- Kick-off: 21:00 CET / 20:00 BST
- Broadcast: BT Sport / UEFA.tv (Europe), CBS Sports / Paramount+ (US)
🏟️ What’s at Stake
- The winner advances to the Champions League Final at Wembley on June 1
- Arsenal seeks their first UCL final appearance since 2006
- PSG aims for a return to the final after falling short in 2020 and 2021
🔮 Possible Final Opponent
The winner of this tie will face Real Madrid, who beat Bayern Munich 2–1 on aggregate in the other semifinal.
This fixture represents more than just a football match — it’s a battle of two ambitious, star-studded sides chasing continental glory. Expect drama, intensity, and Champions League theatre at its best.
