Arsenal vs. PSG: UEFA Champions League Semifinal Preview

The UEFA Champions League semifinals are set to begin at the Emirates Stadium in North London, where Arsenal will host Paris Saint-Germain, with a coveted place in next month`s final at stake.

For Arsenal, Tuesday`s match marks the end of a 16-year absence from the Champions League semifinals. In contrast, PSG are making their fourth appearance at this stage in just six seasons, though they are yet to lift the trophy. This tie also serves as a rematch of their earlier group stage encounter in North London, which Arsenal won 2-0. However, six months and a winter transfer window have brought significant changes for the French champions. They are now considered the second favorites to win the Champions League, anticipating a closely contested battle against Arsenal.

Arsenal recently delivered a stunning performance against Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, highlighted by two remarkable set-piece goals from Declan Rice. This victory represents a new peak in their consistent upward progression under manager Mikel Arteta. The two clubs are currently at different stages: PSG are pursuing a potential treble this season, while this campaign for them is primarily about integrating Luis Enrique`s new tactical approach. For Arsenal, now in Arteta`s fifth season, winning a trophy this year might be crucial to demonstrate continued development rather than a plateau.

Match Details

• Date: Tuesday, April 29
• Time: 3 p.m. ET
• Location: Emirates Stadium — London, England
• TV: CBS | Live stream: Paramount+ (Star Cam: CBS Sports Golazo Network)
• Odds: Arsenal +105; Draw +250; Paris Saint-Germain +250

Last Meeting

Their most recent encounter in October saw Arsenal secure a relatively comfortable 2-0 victory with goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. This match showcased the Gunners at their peak efficiency; despite lacking a prolific striker at the time, they were clinical, putting five of their six shots on target. Arsenal also outperformed PSG in expected goals, generating 0.71 xG compared to the visitors` 0.4 xG from 10 shots. It was considered an underwhelming display from Luis Enrique`s side, reflecting the challenges of their group stage draw and adjusting expectations in their first season without Kylian Mbappe. However, the atmosphere and outlook in Paris have significantly shifted since then.

What Arsenal Are Saying

Reaching the Champions League semifinals is a rare occurrence in Arsenal`s recent history, particularly when facing opponents experienced at this level. However, the Gunners have gained significant confidence following their impressive quarterfinal performance against Real Madrid. This has led to a notable shift in mindset for the home side. Manager Mikel Arteta articulated this in his pre-match comments on Monday, stating that Arsenal`s talent is now complemented by a strong belief in their ability to go all the way.

“It`s about visualizing it,” he said. “It`s about being convinced. You step onto that pitch believing we`re going to beat them, that we`ll be better than them tomorrow, and doing everything we know is right to win the game. Go there with conviction. Feeling that conviction around you is crucial. By creating that energy, we will be much closer to winning the game. That`s the feeling within the team. We are truly looking forward to playing tomorrow and we will give our absolute best to win.”

What Paris Saint-Germain Are Saying

Earning a place in the Champions League semifinals inherently brings confidence, particularly for a PSG team whose deep run has surprised many. It`s also beneficial that Luis Enrique`s side has a good record against English teams, having defeated Manchester City in the group stage followed by knockout wins against Liverpool and Aston Villa. Enrique expressed this confidence on Monday.

“In terms of confidence, it is very positive for us,” Enrique stated. “We defeated Liverpool, and they won the Premier League this year. But that signifies nothing because every single match is unique. Everyone talks about the Premier League being the best league globally. I`m not sure if I concur or not. Nevertheless, we are filled with confidence and eagerly anticipate competing in the semifinal.”

The only English team they haven`t managed to beat recently is Arsenal, although Enrique contended that PSG are a significantly different side now compared to the one that played in North London last fall.

“The match you`re referring to occurred on October 1st, which was seven or eight months ago,” he said. “There are substantial differences between then and now. I have reviewed that game and observed how much our play has progressed; we are better now. We are a more complete team.”

Starting Lineups

Arsenal: David Raya; Jurien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino; Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli

Paris Saint-Germain: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Joao Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz; Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Player to Watch

Declan Rice, Arsenal: While Arsenal scored five goals against Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, their strong defensive display over the two legs was fundamental, effectively neutralizing Los Blancos` potent attack. Declan Rice was vital to this effort, intercepting Real Madrid`s plays, although his two goals in the first leg were certainly a valuable addition. Facing a PSG team whose distinct pressing style poses a significant attacking threat, Rice will be crucial in delivering another strong performance to contain the visitors, potentially bringing Arsenal closer to their first Champions League final in almost 20 years.

Storyline to Watch

Paris Saint-Germain: Chasing the Treble: Currently, only two teams remain in contention for a potential treble: Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona. PSG have already secured the Ligue 1 title, and winning the Coupe de France final against Reims in May is widely anticipated. While a domestic double was expected regardless of the squad rebuild, it is their performance in the Champions League that will ultimately define their season and serve as the benchmark for evaluating this younger iteration of Enrique`s team in the coming years. Regardless of the outcome of the semifinals, they have undoubtedly impressed and earned recognition as one of Europe`s most exciting teams. The key question, lingering since they eliminated Liverpool in the round of 16, is just how far this side can truly advance, both now and in the near future.

Prediction

Thierry Henry`s comment that this PSG team would be tougher to face than Real Madrid speaks volumes. Luis Enrique has skillfully reshaped his squad, creating a team that challenges opponents effectively through its pressing game and potent attack. Even for a defense as capable as Arsenal`s, confronting PSG presents a distinct challenge that might slightly favor the away side. The first leg is expected to be competitive, but the outcome could edge towards PSG, giving them an advantage before the decisive return leg in Paris next week. Prediction: Arsenal 1, Paris Saint-Germain 2

Semifinals TV Schedule (U.S. / Eastern)