On May 7, 2025, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) hosted Arsenal in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal, and it was a moment few anticipated that changed the tide of the match. Fabián Ruiz, the 29-year-old Spanish midfielder, scored his first-ever goal in the Champions League, putting PSG ahead and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
The match began with both teams feeling the weight of the occasion. Arsenal came into the game trailing 1-0 on aggregate from the first leg in London, and the pressure was palpable. However, it was PSG who struck first in the 27th minute, thanks to a well-executed play by Ruiz. Following a poorly cleared free kick by Arsenal’s Thomas Partey, Ruiz feigned a shot before unleashing a powerful left-footed volley from the edge of the box. The strike was unstoppable, even with a slight deflection off defender William Saliba, as it sailed past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
“¡Gol del PSG! Fabián Ruiz remata de volea y pone el 2-0 en el global,” exclaimed the commentators, capturing the excitement of the moment. The goal not only marked a personal milestone for Ruiz, as it was his first Champions League goal in his 47 appearances in the competition, but it also extended PSG's aggregate lead over Arsenal to 2-0.
Ruiz’s goal was a testament to his growing influence this season, as he has now found the net five times, demonstrating his capability to contribute offensively. Before this match, he had only registered six assists in the Champions League, making this goal a significant addition to his profile in European football.
PSG's coach, Luis Enrique, praised his team’s performance and highlighted the importance of the goal. “Fabián has been working hard, and it’s great to see him get on the scoresheet in such a crucial match,” he said during the post-match interview. The goal came at a critical juncture, shifting the momentum firmly in PSG's favor.
As the match continued, Arsenal struggled to find their footing. The Gunners, who had hoped to turn the tie around, faced a daunting challenge as they now needed to score at least two goals to keep their Champions League hopes alive. The pressure was mounting, and the atmosphere at the Parc des Princes grew electric with anticipation.
In a parallel match on May 6, 2025, Inter Milan's Francesco Acerbi also celebrated a milestone of his own, scoring his first-ever goal in European competition against Barcelona. This moment underscored the theme of unexpected heroes rising to the occasion in critical matches.
Back at the PSG vs. Arsenal match, the Gunners attempted to respond to Ruiz's stunning strike. They pushed forward, looking for an equalizer, but PSG's defense held firm, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma making several crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet. The French side's defensive solidity has been a hallmark of their campaign, and it was on full display as they thwarted Arsenal's attempts to penetrate their backline.
As the match approached its final stages, the tension in the stadium was palpable. Arsenal’s players were visibly frustrated, unable to convert their possession into meaningful chances. The Gunners' coach, Mikel Arteta, urged his team to keep pressing, but the clock was ticking down, and the pressure was mounting.
With each passing minute, PSG grew more confident, buoyed by their lead and the backing of their home crowd. The supporters chanted Ruiz’s name, celebrating his remarkable contribution to the match. It was a moment of vindication for the midfielder, who had faced scrutiny earlier in the season but had now emerged as a key player in PSG's quest for European glory.
As the final whistle blew, PSG secured a 2-0 aggregate victory over Arsenal, advancing to the Champions League final. The players celebrated on the pitch, with Ruiz at the center of the jubilant scene, having etched his name into the club's history with his first Champions League goal.
This victory not only propels PSG into the final but also reinforces their status as one of the favorites to lift the trophy. With players like Ruiz stepping up at pivotal moments, fans are left hopeful for what lies ahead in the final match.
As for Arsenal, the defeat marked another disappointment in their Champions League campaign, leaving them to reflect on what went wrong and how they can improve moving forward. The Gunners will need to regroup as they turn their attention back to domestic competitions, hoping to regain their form and find success in the Premier League.
The stage is now set for PSG as they await their opponent in the final, with hopes high that this season could finally see them crowned champions of Europe.
