This week marks the return of the UEFA Champions League as the four remaining contenders face off in the first leg of the semifinals. These elite European clubs are now charting their course towards the ultimate prize: a place in the final, scheduled for May 31st at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
The pursuit of a treble remains alive for both Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona. Having already secured domestic silverware this season, they stand out as potentially the strongest contenders to lift Europe`s most coveted club trophy next month. However, their path to Munich is challenging, requiring them to overcome two formidable opponents – Arsenal and Inter Milan – who also harbor realistic ambitions of going all the way.
Arsenal will host PSG on Tuesday, marking their first appearance in the Champions League semifinals in 16 years. This follows their impressive performance just weeks prior, including a commanding victory over reigning champions Real Madrid. Meanwhile, Inter Milan travels to Barcelona hoping to reverse a recent downturn in form. Simone Inzaghi`s side is currently on a four-game winless streak, a run that saw them eliminated from the Coppa Italia and potentially lose ground in the Serie A title race.
As the Champions League semifinals draw near, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know before watching the action unfold:
How to Watch
Live coverage of the Champions League semifinal first legs will be available. Pre-match and post-match analysis shows will also be featured, offering comprehensive coverage. Special viewing options like a `Star Cam` may be available during certain games, and dedicated post-match programs and interview shows will wrap up the coverage each day, often featuring insights from football analysts.
Semifinals TV Schedule
All times U.S. Eastern
| Match/Show | Time | How to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| UEFA Champions League Today pre-match | 2 p.m. | CBS, Paramount+ |
| Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain | 3 p.m. | CBS, Paramount+ |
| Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain: Star Cam | 3 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network, YouTube |
| UEFA Champions League Today post-match | 5 p.m. | Paramount+ |
| The Champions Club | 6 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network, YouTube |
| Scoreline | 7 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network |
| Match/Show | Time | How to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| UEFA Champions League Today pre-match | 2 p.m. | CBS, Paramount+ |
| Barcelona vs. Inter | 3 p.m. | CBS, Paramount+ |
| Barcelona vs. Inter: Star Cam | 3 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network, YouTube |
| UEFA Champions League Today post-match | 5 p.m. | Paramount+ |
| The Champions Club | 5 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network, YouTube |
| Scoreline | 7 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network |
| Kickin` It: Micah Richards | 9 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network |
Storylines for the Semifinals
The semifinal stage presents compelling narratives for each of the four clubs:
Treble Watch for Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain
Only two teams remain in contention for a potential treble: PSG and Barcelona. Many might not have predicted this pairing at the season`s outset, but both clubs have navigated their respective challenges effectively to reach this point and are currently seen as favorites. Barcelona, despite facing ongoing financial complexities off the pitch, are considered the bookmakers` choice. They`ve been boosted by the emergence of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha`s strong season, though they will miss their leading scorer Robert Lewandowski due to injury. PSG, under Luis Enrique, have adapted well to a new tactical approach and have become a difficult side to face. With the Ligue 1 title secured, their main objective is to push past Arsenal and return to the Champions League final for the first time in five years, a significant achievement in what was anticipated to be a transitional season without Kylian Mbappe.
Arsenal`s Semifinal Return
Arsenal enters their first Champions League semifinal in 16 years with full focus, as this competition represents their only remaining chance for silverware this season. Their defensive solidity has been a key factor in their European run, highlighted by their comprehensive victory over Real Madrid in the quarterfinals. However, questions linger about their attacking clinicality, a factor that potentially hindered their Premier League title challenge. The pressure is on Mikel Arteta and the squad to avoid another trophyless season, and failure to win the Champions League may lead to scrutiny regarding the team`s progression.
Inter Milan`s Downward Turn
Unlike the other three teams who appear to have momentum, Inter Milan`s recent form has been concerning. In just one week, they saw their treble hopes severely dented by poor domestic results. They were eliminated from the Coppa Italia by AC Milan and have lost ground in the Serie A title race following a four-game winless run. The challenge for Inter is balancing their Champions League ambitions with the need to regain form domestically. Doubts remain about whether they can realistically compete for either title given their current trajectory.
