Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set for a thrilling encounter against Arsenal in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at the Parc des Princes. With a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg, secured by Ousmane Dembele's stunning fourth-minute strike in North London, PSG is just 90 minutes away from a potential return to the Champions League final. However, Arsenal, known for their unpredictability, is eager to overturn that deficit and make their mark.
Head coach Luis Enrique confirmed that Dembele, PSG's top scorer this season with 33 goals across all competitions, will be available for selection after recovering from a hamstring issue that forced him off the pitch during the first leg. "He’s been training with us for the last two days. You saw him on Tuesday – a normal training session for him. He’ll be available on Wednesday," Enrique stated during the pre-match press conference.
Dembele's return is a significant boost for PSG, who are looking to capitalize on their home advantage. Achraf Hakimi, PSG's attacking wingback, praised Dembele's abilities, calling him "a genius on the ball." He expressed excitement about Dembele's return, emphasizing his game-changing potential. "He is the type of player who makes you want to go to the stadium to watch because he is a genius on the ball, even if he doesn’t have many chances. He can change the course of the game so we are delighted to have him back in the team," Hakimi said.
Both teams come into this match looking to shake off disappointing weekend defeats. PSG suffered a 2-1 loss to RC Strasbourg at Stade de la Meinau, extending their losing streak in Ligue 1 to two matches. Although Bradley Barcola managed to score for PSG, they couldn't find an equalizer, leaving them frustrated ahead of this crucial tie. Meanwhile, Arsenal also faced a setback, losing 2-1 at home to Bournemouth after initially taking the lead. This context adds pressure on both sides as they aim for redemption.
As PSG prepares for the clash, they are aware that complacency could cost them dearly. Arsenal's history of pulling off upsets in high-stakes matches makes them a formidable opponent. Enrique acknowledged the challenge, stating, "Which means knowing that we will suffer at some point of this game, because the opponents don’t have a favorable result. So it will be like in the first leg, a game balanced between both sides. I think we will need to put in a similar performance that in the first leg and most importantly stay true to our philosophy that led us to this point."
Hakimi echoed Enrique's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their attacking style even while defending a slender lead. He stated, "I think it is a good type of pressure to have. These are games that every player and child dreams of being involved in, and we have to channel that in the right way. I don’t think our style of play will change. The coach has always sent a clear message which is that whether we are winning or losing, our style will never change."
The atmosphere at the Parc des Princes is expected to be electric, with Hakimi noting, "We know that tomorrow will be a very special evening for all Parisians. The atmosphere at the Parc des Princes is going to be incredible, and we know that even outside the stadium, the whole city will be behind us. I think our fans deserve to go to the final, so we’re going to do everything we can to get there." This passionate support could prove to be a decisive factor in the outcome of the match.
PSG will also rely on their goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who has faced criticism despite his standout performances. Hakimi defended his teammate, stating, "Gigio is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. We have great confidence in him. Some people have doubted him, but not us. We’ve always supported him. Having a goalkeeper of his calibre gives us a lot of peace of mind in matches." Donnarumma's ability to perform under pressure will be crucial against an Arsenal side that will be pushing hard to level the tie.
Additionally, PSG received more good news on the injury front with South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-in returning to full training after a knock sustained in the weekend's defeat. This depth in the squad gives Enrique more options as he strategizes for the high-stakes encounter.
As the countdown to kick-off begins, both teams are aware of the stakes involved. PSG is looking to secure their place in the final for only the second time in their history, while Arsenal is determined to pull off a memorable comeback. The match promises to be a captivating display of skill, strategy, and determination, with both sides eager to seize the moment.
With the first leg behind them and everything on the line, fans can expect an intense battle filled with drama and excitement. Will PSG manage to hold onto their lead and reach the final, or will Arsenal's fighting spirit see them through to a remarkable turnaround? Only time will tell as the two clubs clash in this pivotal Champions League semi-final.
