Arsenal return to the Parc des Princes nineteen years after suffering UEFA Champions League heartbreak in the French capital, needing to overturn a 1-0 deficit against Paris Saint-Germain in tonight’s second leg of their semi-final. With a place in Munich at stake, the Gunners must conjure one of Europe’s rarest feats, progressing after a first-leg home defeat.
First Leg Recap
In the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Ousmane Dembélé scored early to give PSG a crucial away victory. Despite Arsenal’s efforts, they couldn’t find an equalizer, leaving them with the task of securing a win in Paris to advance.
PSG – Poised on the brink of history
Luis Enrique’s side arrive as slight favourites after Ousmane Dembele’s early strike at the Emirates gave them a vital away win. That victory continued PSG’s stellar European home form, with 14 goals scored in their last three Champions League matches at the Parc.
While they fell 2-1 at Strasbourg over the weekend with a heavily rotated side, the Parisians remain focused on delivering the long-elusive Champions League crown.
Arsenal – Up against precedent and pressure
Mikel Arteta’s men stumbled domestically at the weekend, losing 2-1 to Bournemouth despite fielding several first-choice stars. That result was emblematic of recent frailties, with the Gunners setting an unwanted club record for dropped points from winning positions.
Still, their away form offers hope, seven unbeaten and four straight road wins in Europe, all with multiple goals scored.
Team News
PSG received a boost as Dembele, who suffered a hamstring scare, has been cleared to start. Lee Kang-in is a doubt, but Vitinha and Fabian Ruiz return alongside Joao Neves in midfield. Kvaratskhelia and Doue offer flair on the wings, while Goncalo Ramos remains on standby.
Arsenal welcome back Thomas Partey from suspension, a key return in midfield. Odegaard shook off a weekend knock and should partner Partey and Rice. Timber is available again, while Havertz, Jesus, Magalhaes, Tomiyasu, and Jorginho are still sidelined. Calafiori faces a late fitness test.
Predicted Line-ups
PSG XI: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Ruiz, Vitinha, Neves; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia
Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli
Match Info:
Competition: UEFA Champions League Semi-Final, Second Leg
Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM Nigeria
Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris
Referee: Felix Zwayer
What is at stake:
PSG aim to reach their second Champions League final, having previously appeared in 2020. Arsenal seek their first final since 2006. The winner will face Inter Milan, who advanced after a dramatic aggregate win over Barcelona.
