In a thrilling encounter at the Parc des Princes, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) hosted Arsenal in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final on May 7, 2025. With both teams eager to secure a spot in the final, the stakes were high, especially for Arsenal, who were looking to make their first final appearance since 2006. PSG held a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg, thanks to an early goal from Ousmane Dembele.
The atmosphere was electric as fans filled the stadium, hoping to witness their teams make history. PSG, aiming for their second final in five years, were determined to capitalize on their home advantage. Arsenal, on the other hand, faced the daunting task of overturning the deficit against a formidable opponent.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, expressed his confidence in the squad ahead of the match, emphasizing the need for a strong performance. "We know we can compete at this level, and we have to show that tonight," he stated during a pre-match interview. The Gunners were buoyed by the return of key player Thomas Partey, who had missed the first leg due to suspension.
As the match kicked off at 8 PM BST, both teams started cautiously, testing each other’s defenses. Arsenal's lineup featured David Raya in goal, with a back four that included Jurrien Timber and William Saliba. The midfield was anchored by Partey, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli provided pace on the flanks.
PSG's lineup was equally impressive, with Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal and a formidable defense led by Marquinhos. The midfield included Vitinha and Neves, while Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia posed a constant threat in attack.
In the first half, Arsenal struggled to find their rhythm, with PSG dominating possession. Despite this, the Gunners had a couple of promising chances, including a long-range effort from Martinelli that sailed just over the bar. PSG, however, remained the more dangerous side, with Dembele testing Raya with a powerful shot that the keeper managed to parry away.
As the match progressed, Arsenal began to grow into the game, creating more opportunities. Partey’s return proved crucial as he orchestrated play from the midfield, allowing Arsenal to push forward. The first half ended with the score still at 0-0, leaving Arsenal needing at least two goals to advance.
During the halftime break, Arteta rallied his troops, urging them to maintain their intensity and focus on the task at hand. "We need to believe in ourselves and take our chances when they come," he told his players.
The second half saw Arsenal come out with renewed vigor. Just ten minutes in, they found the breakthrough they desperately needed. A well-worked move culminated in Saka delivering a pinpoint cross into the box, where Martinelli was waiting to head the ball past Donnarumma, leveling the aggregate score at 1-1.
The goal sent the Arsenal fans into a frenzy, igniting hope for a comeback. PSG, rattled by the sudden shift in momentum, struggled to regain control. However, they soon responded with a surge of their own. Dembele, determined to make an impact, darted down the right flank, creating a few dangerous situations but failing to convert any into goals.
As the match wore on, both teams displayed signs of fatigue, but neither was willing to back down. Arsenal continued to press for a second goal, while PSG looked to exploit any gaps left in the Gunners' defense. In a tense moment, Raya was called into action to make a crucial save from a close-range effort by Kvaratskhelia, keeping Arsenal's hopes alive.
With the clock ticking down, the tension in the stadium was palpable. Arsenal needed one more goal to secure their place in the final, but PSG's defense held firm. In the final minutes, Arteta made a bold decision, bringing on additional attacking options in a last-ditch effort to find the winner.
In the dying moments of the match, Arsenal's persistence paid off. A corner kick taken by Odegaard found its way to Saliba, who rose above the PSG defenders to head the ball into the net, sending the Arsenal fans into euphoria. The Gunners had turned the tie around, leading 2-1 on the night and 2-1 on aggregate.
As the final whistle blew, Arsenal celebrated their remarkable comeback, securing their place in the Champions League final for the first time in 19 years. The players embraced each other on the pitch, while the Arsenal supporters erupted in joy, chanting and singing in celebration of their team's incredible achievement.
Meanwhile, PSG were left to ponder what went wrong after a strong first leg performance. Manager Luis Enrique was visibly disappointed, stating, "We had our chances, but we couldn't capitalize. Arsenal played well and deserved their victory tonight."
With the final set to take place in Munich later this month, Arsenal will now prepare to face Inter Milan, who defeated Barcelona in an extraordinary semi-final clash that ended 7-6 on aggregate. The stage is set for an exciting showdown between two historic clubs, each vying for European glory.
As fans eagerly await the final, the focus will be on how Arsenal can build on their impressive performance and end their long wait for a Champions League title. The anticipation is palpable, and the football world will be watching closely as the Gunners aim to make history.
