PSG Edge Arsenal 1-0 at Emirates as Champions League Semis Bring Back Familiar Faces

A Return to the Top for Arsenal and PSG

The revamped Champions League format has delivered a familiar sight: legacy clubs in the final four. Arsenal reached the semifinals for the first time since 2009, while PSG returned after falling at this stage last season to a resurgent Borussia Dortmund.

A Minimalist Tifo Sparks Online Jokes

Before kickoff at the Emirates on April 29, fans witnessed an unusually modest pre-match display: a plain red banner with a white cannon. While true to club tradition, many supporters online found it underwhelming, especially given the scale of the occasion. Sources suggest the club banned fan-driven displays and handled the choreography in-house.

Dembélé Strikes Early with Kvaratskhelia Assist

The match opened at breakneck pace. In the 4th minute, Ousmane Dembélé exchanged a slick one-two with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and slotted the ball into the far corner past David Raya. That made it 26 goals in the calendar year for the Frenchman — elite numbers.

Arsenal Dominate, but VAR and Donnarumma Deny Them

Despite falling behind, Arsenal controlled possession and dictated the tempo. PSG slowed things down, conserving energy. Early in the second half, Mikel Merino thought he'd equalized, but VAR ruled the goal offside. From there, the Gunners pushed even harder.

Gianluigi Donnarumma responded with one of his best performances of the tournament, making crucial saves and keeping Arsenal at bay throughout the second half.

PSG Take Slim Lead to Paris

The match ended 1-0 in PSG’s favor, giving them a slim but valuable lead ahead of the second leg at Parc des Princes on May 7. Luis Enrique’s tactical pragmatism prevailed — his side showed they can defend as well as they attack.

Published by Patrick Jane
30.04.2025