The final four teams are set to compete in the UEFA Champions League semifinals this week. The first leg matches will determine the path to the final scheduled for May 31st at Munich`s Allianz Arena.
Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona are both still in contention for a treble, having already secured domestic trophies this season. They are seen as strong contenders for Europe`s top club honor. However, their path to Munich requires overcoming formidable opponents: Arsenal and Inter.
Arsenal will host PSG on Tuesday, marking their return to the Champions League semifinals after 16 years. This follows their significant victory against a strong opponent in the quarterfinals (based on input text description). Meanwhile, Inter travels to Barcelona needing to reverse a recent poor run of form. The team is currently winless in their last four matches, a sequence that included elimination from the domestic cup and falling behind in their league title race.
As the Champions League semifinals kick off, here`s what you need to know:
Storylines for the semifinals
1. Treble Aspirations for Barcelona and PSG
The field of treble contenders has narrowed to two: Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona. Both clubs have navigated challenges to reach this stage and are considered favorites. Barcelona, despite previous financial issues, have impressed with emerging talents like Lamine Yamal and a strong season from Raphinha, though they face Inter without their leading scorer Robert Lewandowski (injured). PSG, under Luis Enrique, have adapted well to his tactics and are difficult to play against. Having secured their domestic title, they aim to reach the final again, which would be a significant achievement in their first season post-Kylian Mbappe, initially seen as a transition year.
2. Arsenal`s Semifinal Comeback
Arsenal enters the Champions League semifinals with full focus, as this competition represents their only remaining chance for a trophy this season. Their strong defense was key in a dominant quarterfinal win (as described in input). However, questions remain about their clinical finishing, which potentially impacted their league title challenge. Facing the possibility of another season without silverware, the pressure is on Mikel Arteta and the team to prove they haven`t reached a plateau.
3. Inter`s Recent Struggles
Unlike the other three teams, Inter has lost momentum. Within a week, their treble hopes diminished significantly due to poor domestic results. They were eliminated from the domestic cup and lost ground in their league title race, extending a four-game winless streak. A major question is how Inter will balance their Champions League ambitions with their league position, and whether they can find the form needed to succeed in either competition.
Dominic Ashworth