Following the conclusion of the first legs of the UEFA Champions League semifinals, the focus shifts to the scenarios required for each team to secure a place in the final. Paris Saint-Germain holds a strong advantage after their 1-0 victory away at Arsenal, positioning them well for qualification, although they will need to be vigilant against the Gunners. Barcelona, however, faces a tougher challenge. Their thrilling 3-3 home draw against Inter Milan means they must travel to the daunting San Siro needing a victory to advance.
Here`s a breakdown of what each club needs to do to reach the final in Munich on May 31st.
Barcelona
Barcelona`s recovery from a two-goal deficit to draw 3-3 against Inter puts them in a somewhat favorable position, despite the missed opportunity for a home win. To progress, they are required to achieve a decisive result away in Milan, as failing to win at home shifted the advantage to the Italian side.
- Barcelona must defeat Inter to qualify.
- A draw would lead to extra time.
- A defeat would result in their elimination.
Inter Milan
Inter secured an excellent result away at Barcelona. Their strong start in the first leg places them in a good position for the return fixture at home, where securing the result will see them reach their second final in three seasons.
- Inter qualifies for the final with a win.
- A draw would force the match into extra time.
- A loss would eliminate them.
Arsenal
For Arsenal, the situation is quite clear following their first-leg defeat. They must travel to Paris and win to keep their hopes alive.
- Arsenal advances with a victory by a margin of two goals or more.
- A win by a single goal difference would send the tie to extra time.
- Any other outcome than a win means elimination for the Gunners.
Paris Saint-Germain
PSG established a very comfortable position in the tie after their win away in London. Here`s their qualification scenario:
- PSG qualifies for the final with a win or a draw.
- If PSG loses the second leg by one goal, the tie will go to extra time.
- A defeat by two goals or more would result in their elimination.
Dominic Ashworth