The UEFA Champions League semifinals commence this Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium, featuring Arsenal hosting Paris Saint-Germain as both teams vie for a place in the upcoming final.
For Arsenal, Tuesday`s match marks their return to the Champions League semifinals after a 16-year absence. In contrast, PSG are making their impressive fourth semifinal appearance in six seasons. This tie is a repeat of their earlier group stage meeting in North London, which Arsenal won 2-0. Significant changes over the past six months, including the winter transfer window, have transformed the French champions. PSG are now considered the second favorites for the Champions League title, setting the stage for a highly contested encounter.
Fresh from a dominant quarterfinal victory over Real Madrid, highlighted by two exceptional set-piece goals from Declan Rice, Arsenal are on a clear upward path under manager Mikel Arteta. However, the two clubs find themselves at different stages: PSG are pursuing a potential treble, while this season represents an initial phase for Luis Enrique`s new tactical setup. For Arsenal, now in Arteta`s fifth season, securing a trophy could be crucial to demonstrate continued progress rather than stagnation.
Here`s what you need to know:
Last meeting
Arsenal secured a relatively comfortable 2-0 victory in their previous encounter in October, with goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. The Gunners were efficient, converting five of their six shots on target and outperforming PSG in expected goals (0.71 xG vs 0.4 xG). It was an underwhelming performance from Luis Enrique`s side, reflecting early-season challenges, but their form and expectations have significantly changed since then.
What Arsenal are saying
Reaching the Champions League semifinals is a rare event for Arsenal compared to PSG`s recent experience. However, Arsenal`s commanding performance against Real Madrid in the quarterfinals has significantly boosted their confidence and mindset. Manager Mikel Arteta emphasized the importance of belief ahead of the match. He stated, “It`s just visualising it… 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… 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.”
What Paris Saint-Germain are saying
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique expressed confidence, partly stemming from their unexpected deep run in the competition. He highlighted their positive record against English teams this season, stating, “In terms of confidence, it is very positive for us… 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 their earlier loss to Arsenal but insisted PSG is a much-improved side now. He remarked, “The game that you are talking about took place on 1 October so that was seven or eight months ago… 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, FabianRuiz ; Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Player to watch
Declan Rice, Arsenal: While Arsenal`s quarterfinal attack was impressive, their defense was key, effectively neutralizing Real Madrid`s threats. Declan Rice was pivotal in this defensive effort, in addition to scoring two goals in the first leg. Against PSG`s distinctive pressing and attacking style, Rice`s ability to disrupt play will be vital. His performance could be crucial in helping Arsenal reach their first Champions League final in nearly two decades.
Storyline to watch
Paris Saint-Germain on treble watch: Only two teams, PSG and Barcelona, remain in contention for a treble this season. PSG has already secured the Ligue 1 title and are favorites for the Coupe de France. However, their Champions League performance will truly define this season and set the benchmark for Luis Enrique`s revitalized, youth-focused squad. They have already impressed, earning a reputation as one of Europe`s most entertaining teams. The key question is how far this team can go, both in this tie and in the coming years.
Prediction
Thierry Henry suggested this PSG team would be tougher opponents than Real Madrid, acknowledging Luis Enrique`s successful tactical redesign, which utilizes pressing and strong attacking play to challenge opponents. Even Arsenal`s talented defense will face a unique test that might slightly favor the visitors. Expect a competitive first leg, potentially tipping in PSG`s favor before the return match in Paris.
Prediction: Arsenal 1, Paris Saint-Germain 2
Dominic Ashworth