PSG Seizes Advantage with Early Goal to Defeat Arsenal in Champions League Semi-Final
Paris Saint-Germain took a crucial step toward the Champions League final by defeating Arsenal 1-0 in the first leg of their semi-final clash at the Emirates Stadium. Ousmane Dembélé’s early strike secured the victory for the French side, leaving Arsenal with a challenging task ahead in the return leg.
Dembélé stunned the home crowd just four minutes into the match, finishing low from a precise delivery by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. This early goal set the tone for a dominant PSG performance, as they maintained relentless pressure on Arsenal, forcing goalkeeper David Raya into a series of impressive saves, including a remarkable stop from teenager Désiré Doué.
Despite the early setback, Arsenal managed to regroup and find some rhythm, but their efforts were thwarted by PSG’s formidable defense and standout goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The Italian international, who had previously excelled in matches against Liverpool and Aston Villa, denied key chances from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, ensuring that PSG held onto their narrow lead.
Arsenal believed they had equalized when Mikel Merino’s header from a Declan Rice free-kick found the back of the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR check, further frustrating the home side.
As the match wore on, PSG had opportunities to extend their lead, with substitute Bradley Barcola missing a chance and Gonçalo Ramos hitting the crossbar. Coach Luis Enrique will likely regret not capitalizing on these chances to secure a more comfortable advantage ahead of the return leg in Paris.
Reflecting on the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the uphill battle his team faces to reach the final in Munich. “We have to do something special in Paris,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a strong response in the next leg.
PSG’s victory not only puts them in a favorable position but also underscores their status as favorites to claim their first Champions League title. With a potent attacking lineup and a resolute defense, they continue to demonstrate why they are a dominant force in European football.
