Arsenal vs. PSG: UEFA Champions League Semifinal Preview

The semifinals of the UEFA Champions League begin this Tuesday at Arsenal`s Emirates Stadium in North London. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain, vying for a place in next month`s final.

This match marks Arsenal`s return to the Champions League semifinals after a 16-year absence. In contrast, PSG reaches this stage for the fourth time in six seasons, though they are yet to lift the trophy. The teams previously met in the group stage in North London, with Arsenal winning 2-0. Since then, six months and a transfer window have significantly transformed the French champions. PSG is now considered the second favorite to win the tournament, setting the stage for a highly competitive tie.

Here`s what you need to know before tuning in.

How to watch Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain, odds

• Date: Tuesday, April 29 | Time: 3 p.m. ET
• Location: Emirates Stadium — London, England
• TV: CBS | Live stream: Paramount+ (Star Cam: CBS Sports Golazo Network)
• Odds: Arsenal +105; Draw +250; Paris Saint-Germain +250

Last meeting

In their previous meeting in October, Arsenal secured a comfortable 2-0 victory with goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. This showcased the Gunners` efficiency, converting five of six shots on target despite the ongoing discussion about needing a dedicated striker. Arsenal also outperformed PSG in expected goals (xG), registering 0.71 xG compared to the visitors` 0.4 xG from 10 shots. That match was seen as a lackluster performance for Enrique`s team, reflecting challenges in their group stage and adjusting expectations for the first season without Kylian Mbappe. However, the situation in Paris has significantly shifted since then.

What Arsenal are saying

Reaching the Champions League semifinals is a relatively rare achievement for Arsenal, particularly when facing a team like PSG with more recent experience at this level. However, following their impressive quarterfinal performance against Real Madrid, the Gunners approach this match with newfound confidence and a changed mindset. Manager Mikel Arteta noted in his pre-match comments that the team now pairs their talent with a strong belief in their ability to reach the final.

Arteta emphasized the importance of belief: “It`s about visualizing and being convinced,” he stated. “You step onto the pitch believing you will beat them, that you will be better… Go out there with conviction… That energy is key; it brings us much closer to winning. I sense that in the team; we are really looking forward to the game and are determined to give our absolute best.”

What Paris Saint-Germain are saying

Reaching the Champions League stage brings inherent confidence, especially for a PSG team whose deep run has surprised many. Coach Luis Enrique`s side also boasts a good record against English opponents this season, having defeated Manchester City in the group stage and subsequently Liverpool and Aston Villa in the knockout rounds. This led Enrique to express a strong fighting spirit before the match.

Enrique highlighted the positive impact on confidence: “It`s very positive for us,” he commented. “We beat Liverpool, who won the Premier League… but every match is unique… People call the Premier League the best league… I don`t know if I agree, but we are confident and eager for the semifinal.”

Arsenal is the only English team PSG hasn`t overcome this season, but Enrique contended that his team is significantly different from the one that played in London earlier in the campaign.

Referring to the October fixture, Enrique stated, “That game was seven or eight months ago… There are major differences now. I`ve re-watched it and seen how much our game has improved; we are better now. We are a more complete team.”

Starting 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 scored five goals against Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, their success over both legs was built on a formidable defense that largely neutralized Madrid`s potent attack. Declan Rice was key to this defensive solidity, effectively disrupting Real Madrid`s play, in addition to scoring two valuable goals in the first leg. Facing a PSG team known for its challenging press and attacking prowess, Rice`s performance will be vital in containing the visitors and could be crucial in helping Arsenal reach their first Champions League final in almost two decades.

Storyline to watch

Paris Saint-Germain`s Treble Pursuit: Only two teams remain in contention for a treble: PSG and Barcelona. PSG has already secured the Ligue 1 title and is favored to win the Coupe de France final against Reims in May, a domestic double largely anticipated regardless of their squad changes. However, it is their performance in the Champions League that will truly define their season and set the benchmark for this revamped, youth-oriented team under Enrique for years to come. Having already impressed and earned a reputation as one of Europe`s most entertaining teams, the main question since eliminating Liverpool in the round of 16 has been about their ultimate potential, both in this tie and beyond.

Prediction

Thierry Henry`s assessment that this PSG side is tougher to face than Real Madrid is grounded in Enrique`s successful tactical overhaul, creating a team that pressures effectively and boasts potent attack. Even Arsenal`s strong defense will find PSG a challenging and perhaps slightly unfavorable matchup. The first leg is expected to be competitive, but it could potentially lean in PSG`s favor, giving them an advantage before the decisive return leg in Paris.

Prediction: Arsenal 1, Paris Saint-Germain 2

Semifinals TV schedule