The UEFA Champions League semifinals commence on Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium, setting the stage for Arsenal to host Paris Saint-Germain with a coveted spot in next month`s final at stake.
This tie marks Arsenal`s return to the Champions League semifinals after a 16-year absence. In stark contrast, PSG are reaching this stage for an impressive fourth time in the last six seasons. The match is also a rematch of their group stage encounter in North London, where Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory. However, six months and a winter transfer window have significantly altered the French champions. They are now considered the second favorites to lift the Champions League trophy, promising a highly competitive contest for both teams.
Arsenal are just two weeks removed from their convincing win against Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, highlighted by two exceptional set-piece goals from Declan Rice. This victory represents a new peak in their upward trajectory under manager Mikel Arteta. Yet, the two clubs are at different junctures: PSG are chasing a potential treble, while this season for Luis Enrique`s side feels like an introduction to their new tactical identity. Arsenal, meanwhile, might feel the need for a major trophy to demonstrate continued progress in Arteta`s fifth season rather than a plateau.
Match Details
- Date: Tuesday, April 29
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Emirates Stadium — London, England
- Odds: Arsenal +105; Draw +250; Paris Saint-Germain +250
Last Meeting
Arsenal comfortably won the October fixture 2-0, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. This performance showcased the Gunners at their efficient best, converting five of their six shots on target and winning the expected goals battle (0.71 xG vs. PSG`s 0.4 xG from 10 shots). It was a subdued performance from Luis Enrique`s side, reflecting the challenges of their group draw and tempering early expectations in their first season post-Kylian Mbappe. However, the atmosphere and confidence in Paris have shifted considerably since then.
What the Managers Say
Mikel Arteta (Arsenal): Reflecting on reaching the semifinal stage after the Real Madrid victory, Arteta emphasized the importance of belief. “It`s just visualising it,” he said on Monday. “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.”
Luis Enrique (Paris Saint-Germain): Enrique expressed confidence, noting PSG`s recent success against English opposition. “In terms of confidence, it is very positive for us,” he 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.” Regarding the earlier loss to Arsenal, Enrique argued PSG have evolved significantly. “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, Wlliam Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino; Bakayo 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`s attack scored five goals against Real Madrid, their quarterfinal success was fundamentally built on a robust defense that largely shut down Madrid`s attack. Declan Rice was central to this defensive masterclass, effectively disrupting Real Madrid`s rhythm. His two goals in the first leg were a significant bonus. Against a PSG side known for their aggressive press and potent attack, Rice will be crucial in anchoring the midfield, breaking up play, and protecting the defense. His ability to deliver another commanding performance could be key to Arsenal reaching their first Champions League final in almost two decades.
Storyline to Watch
Paris Saint-Germain on Treble Watch: PSG are one of only two teams globally (the other being Barcelona in this original context, though the text implies only two left in contention) still with a chance at winning the treble. They have already secured the Ligue 1 title and are strong favorites for the Coupe de France final. While a domestic double was expected, their Champions League campaign is the true measure of success for Luis Enrique`s retooled, youth-focused squad. Regardless of the outcome against Arsenal, PSG have impressed this season, establishing themselves as arguably Europe`s most entertaining side. The key question now is how high they can elevate their performance, not just in this tie, but in the seasons to come.
Prediction
Thierry Henry notably suggested that this PSG team would be a tougher opponent than Real Madrid, a testament to Luis Enrique`s successful tactical overhaul. PSG`s unique pressing scheme and strong attacking output present a difficult challenge. Even for a defense as talented as Arsenal`s, facing PSG offers a distinct test that might slightly favor the visitors. Expect a closely fought first leg, but one that could see PSG gain a narrow advantage heading into the return leg in Paris next week. Predicted Score: Arsenal 1, Paris Saint-Germain 2
