The UEFA Champions League semifinals kick off this Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal is set to host Paris Saint-Germain in a crucial match with a place in next month`s final at stake.
For Arsenal, this game marks their first appearance in the Champions League semifinals in 16 years. PSG, however, are seasoned at this stage, reaching the semi-finals for the fourth time in six seasons. This encounter is a rematch of their group stage game in North London, which Arsenal won 2-0. Six months and a winter transfer window have significantly changed the French champions. They are now considered the second favorites to win the Champions League, and a closely contested tie is expected between the two sides.
Arsenal comes into this match on a high note, having recently dismantled Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, boosted by two remarkable set-piece goals from Declan Rice. This reflects the continued upward trajectory under manager Mikel Arteta. The two teams are currently at different stages of development. PSG is pursuing a treble this season, while Luis Enrique`s tenure represents an introduction to a new tactical approach. For Arsenal, now in Arteta`s fifth season, winning a trophy might be necessary to demonstrate further progress beyond their current level.
Here`s what you need to know before tuning in.
Match Details
Date: Tuesday, April 29
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Location: Emirates Stadium, London, England
TV/Stream: CBS, Paramount+ (Star Cam: CBS Sports Golazo Network)
Odds: Arsenal +105; Draw +250; Paris Saint-Germain +250
Previous Meeting
In their group stage clash in October, Arsenal secured a comfortable 2-0 victory with goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. This performance highlighted the Gunners` efficiency, converting five of their six shots on target. They also outperformed PSG in expected goals, generating 0.71 xG compared to the visitors` 0.4 xG from 10 shots. It was a subdued performance from Enrique`s side, reflecting the challenges of their group and tempering initial expectations for the post-Kylian Mbappe era. However, the atmosphere in the French capital has changed considerably since then.
Arsenal`s Perspective
Reaching the Champions League semifinals is a rare achievement for Arsenal, especially when facing an experienced side like PSG. Yet, the Gunners are filled with confidence after their impressive quarterfinal victory over Real Madrid, a result that has shifted their mindset. Manager Mikel Arteta emphasized this belief in his pre-match comments, stating that Arsenal now couples their talent with the conviction that they can win the competition.
“It`s just visualising it,” Arteta said. “To be convinced. You go on that pitch thinking we`re going to beat them, we`re going to be better than them tomorrow and do everything we understand is the right thing to win the game. Go there with a conviction. Feel the conviction around, that is key. To create that energy, we are going to be much closer to winning the game. That`s what I feel in the team. That we are really looking forward to playing the game tomorrow and we`re going to give our very best to win the game.”
Paris Saint-Germain`s View
Advancing in the Champions League naturally breeds confidence, particularly for a PSG squad that has surprised many with their deep run. Their recent record against English clubs is also strong, including wins over Manchester City, Liverpool, and Aston Villa in knockout stages. Luis Enrique expressed this confidence on Monday.
“In terms of confidence, it is very positive for us,” Enrique stated. “We beat Liverpool and they won the Premier League this year. But that doesn`t mean anything because every single match is different. Everybody speaks about the Premier League as being the best league in the world. I don`t know if I agree or not. But we are full of confidence and looking forward to playing in the semifinal.”
Enrique acknowledged that Arsenal is the one English side they haven`t defeated recently but argued that PSG is a significantly different team compared to their meeting in the fall.
“The game that you are talking about took place on 1 October so that was seven or eight months ago,” he said. “There are huge differences between now and then. I have reviewed the game, and seen how far our game has come and we are better now. We are a more complete team.”
Predicted Lineups
Arsenal: David Raya; Jurien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino; Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli
Paris Saint-Germain: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Joao Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Player to Watch
Declan Rice, Arsenal: While Arsenal scored five goals against Real Madrid, the foundation of their quarterfinal success was a formidable defense that largely neutralized Madrid`s potent attack. Declan Rice was pivotal in this defensive effort, disrupting Real Madrid`s play. His two goals in the first leg were an added bonus. Against a PSG side known for its aggressive press and attacking prowess, Rice`s ability to anchor the midfield and protect the defense will be crucial. His performance could be key to Arsenal moving closer to their first Champions League final in nearly two decades.
Storyline to Watch
Paris Saint-Germain on Treble Watch: PSG is one of only two teams still in contention for a treble this season (the other being Barcelona). They have already secured the Ligue 1 title and are strong favorites for the Coupe de France. However, their Champions League performance will be the true measure of success for Luis Enrique`s re-shaped, youth-focused team. Regardless of the outcome against Arsenal, PSG has impressed this season, earning a reputation as one of Europe`s most entertaining teams. The key question is how far this current iteration can go, both now and in the future.
Prediction
As Thierry Henry noted, facing this PSG team is arguably more challenging than facing Real Madrid. Luis Enrique has successfully implemented a tactical system that pressures opponents effectively and generates strong attacking output. Despite Arsenal`s talented defense, dealing with PSG`s unique approach presents a significant challenge that might slightly favor the visitors. Expect a competitive first leg, but one where PSG could gain a narrow advantage heading into the return match in Paris.
Prediction: Arsenal 1, Paris Saint-Germain 2
