Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Arsenal are set to clash in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League semi-final at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, with the French side holding a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg. The stakes couldn't be higher as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the final, with a chance to face Inter Milan, who secured their place after a stunning victory over Barcelona.
PSG's squad for the match features key players such as Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, and Ousmane Dembélé, who, despite being declared fit, will start on the bench due to a previous hamstring issue. Coach Luis Enrique has opted for a front line that includes Bradley Barcola, Désiré Doué, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, showcasing the depth of talent at his disposal. This match marks a pivotal moment for PSG, as they aim for their first-ever European treble, having already clinched the Ligue 1 title and booked a spot in the Coupe de France final against Reims.
Arsenal, under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, comes into this match with a mix of determination and pressure. After a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth in the Premier League, the Gunners are looking to rebound and overturn the deficit from the first leg, where Dembélé scored just three minutes into the match. This semi-final is particularly significant for Arsenal, as it represents their first appearance at this stage of the Champions League in 16 years. The team is eager to reach the final for the first time in nearly two decades, hoping to capture their first European title.
The first leg at the Emirates Stadium saw Arsenal struggle to capitalize on their chances, with notable missed opportunities from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. To succeed in Paris, the Gunners must adopt a more assertive approach, as discussed by analysts Art de Roche, Amy Lawrence, and James McNicholas. Art emphasized the need for Arsenal to take the initiative, stating, "If Arsenal reverse the roles, even without an early goal, that could see belief grow throughout the game." Meanwhile, Lawrence echoed the importance of maintaining a solid defensive stance, suggesting that staying tight at the back could set the stage for a late comeback.
Key to Arsenal's strategy will be the return of Thomas Partey to the midfield, who was suspended for the first leg. His presence is expected to bolster the team's control in the center of the pitch. The tactical battle between Jurrien Timber and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is also anticipated to be crucial, with Kvaratskhelia proving to be a constant threat in the first leg.
As the match approaches, the odds have shifted, with bookmakers offering boosted odds for players like Bukayo Saka, Ousmane Dembélé, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to each have a shot on target at 5/2, up from 13/8. This reflects the excitement surrounding the match and the expectations for a high-octane encounter.
With the match set to kick off at 21:00 CEST, fans can catch all the action live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. The atmosphere in Paris is expected to be electric as both teams seek to make history. PSG aims to secure their place in the final and continue their pursuit of an unprecedented treble, while Arsenal fights to reclaim their status among Europe’s elite.
In the lead-up to the match, the narrative has been dominated by discussions around the significance of this encounter for both clubs. Arsenal’s journey to the semi-finals has been marked by resilience amidst a challenging season, while PSG's shift towards a more sustainable squad has positioned them as formidable contenders in European football.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the question remains: can Arsenal overturn the deficit and secure a place in the final, or will PSG continue their quest for European glory? With both teams boasting talented rosters and high stakes on the line, this semi-final promises to deliver an unforgettable night of football.
