Welcome to Champions League semifinals week! The journey to Munich is reaching its final stages, with the first leg matches set to begin. This Tuesday features a significant clash between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain at the Emirates Stadium.
Upcoming Matches
All times U.S./Eastern
- Monday, April 28: Championship: Leeds United vs. Bristol City, 3 p.m.
- Tuesday, April 29: UCL: Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain, 3 p.m.
Semifinal Previews
Arsenal`s Long-Awaited Semifinal Return
This tie marks Arsenal`s first appearance in the Champions League semifinals in 16 years. They secured their spot by impressively overcoming the reigning champions, Real Madrid, with a dominant 5-1 aggregate victory in the quarterfinals.
While the scoreline against Real Madrid was decisive, the underlying strength of Arsenal`s performance was their solid defense. This defensive capability is seen as their greatest asset as they aim for the final in Munich.
Arsenal`s defense is widely regarded as elite. They severely limit opposition chances near their goal, allowing an average of only 0.69 non-penalty expected goals (npxG) against them per game. Their opponents have significantly fewer touches in the penalty area (16.4 per game) and take fewer shots overall (10.3 per game) compared to other teams in the competition. This defensive resilience was evident even when facing Real Madrid`s formidable attack.
Manager Mikel Arteta described the quarterfinal matches against Real Madrid as arguably the most crucial of his managerial career. However, the journey to the final presents another tough challenge. Paris Saint-Germain are considered a formidable opponent, potentially more difficult than Real Madrid, who had shown some vulnerabilities earlier in the season.
Arsenal`s convincing performance against Real Madrid has helped reassure fans after the team missed out on domestic trophies this season. The key question moving forward is how effectively they can perform against PSG.
The ultimate goal for Arsenal supporters is to see their team reach the final in Munich. However, there is also a scenario where they might not advance but still be recognized as one of Europe`s top clubs. For a team with high ambitions, the challenge is navigating the balance between delivering strong performances and achieving tangible success in the form of silverware.
Analyzing Paris Saint-Germain
Paris Saint-Germain`s Evolution
The last time Paris Saint-Germain played at the Emirates Stadium in October, they suffered a 2-0 loss, a result that did little to dispel the idea that the French champions were undergoing a period of transition. Manager Luis Enrique had hinted that the initial months following Kylian Mbappe`s departure would serve as a showcase for younger players, with their full potential expected to emerge later. The situation has changed dramatically in six months.
Following significant investment in the winter transfer market and the implementation of a distinctive pressing strategy under Enrique, PSG is now regarded as one of Europe`s most thrilling teams and a surprising contender for the Champions League title. Some analysts, including Thierry Henry, believe they will be a tougher challenge for Arsenal than Real Madrid was.
Under Luis Enrique, PSG has developed into a truly cohesive unit. Their style of play is now largely dictated by the midfield, and their new attacking players interchange effectively in unison, rather than operating independently. Critically, this new PSG is defined by its performance when out of possession. They employ an intense press, demonstrated by their low Passes Allowed Per Defensive Action (PPDA) figure, which is the second fewest in the competition. They also lead the competition in ball recoveries in the attacking two-thirds of the pitch and win the most defensive duels.
While facing PSG represents Arsenal`s biggest test yet in the Champions League, the argument can also be made the other way around. Arsenal delivered a statement performance against Real Madrid, but PSG`s most significant win came against Liverpool in the Round of 16, another talented but imperfect side. Their quarterfinal display against Aston Villa did raise some questions. This semifinal tie against Arsenal will truly evaluate the potential of this revitalized PSG team and help set the standard for what can be expected from this young squad in the future.
Around the Football World
Liverpool officially clinched the Premier League title on Sunday with a win against Tottenham Hotspur. This season was characterized by Mohamed Salah`s impressive form and Manchester City`s dip in performance. There is also speculation about which teams could challenge for the title next season.
Barcelona defeated Real Madrid in a dramatic Copa del Rey final on Saturday. This match carried significant implications for both clubs` seasons, and Real Madrid`s Antonio Rudiger may face a substantial ban.
It appears increasingly likely that Carlo Ancelotti will depart Real Madrid to take over the Brazil national team by the June international window. His task will be to address various issues within the squad in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
The NWSL has submitted an application to establish a Division II league, potentially starting as early as 2026. The proposed league is envisioned as a pathway for players from youth levels to the professional game.
Wrexham secured promotion to the Championship with a win over Charlton on Saturday. This achievement prompts questions about which players the club should recruit to be competitive in England`s second division.
Eric Ramsay of Minnesota United is reportedly a candidate for the vacant manager position at Southampton. The Saints are aiming for a swift return to the Premier League following their relegation this season.
Lecce protested Serie A`s decision not to postpone their weekend game against Atalanta following the death of their physiotherapist, Graziano Fiorita. They wore white jerseys without a crest, featuring the text `No value, no color` as a form of protest.
Chelsea defeated Everton on Saturday, boosting their prospects of securing a UEFA Champions League berth for next season. However, the performance itself left room for improvement despite the positive result.
Nikita Haikin from Bodo/Glimt discussed his team`s UEFA Europa League semifinal against Tottenham Hotspur. Bodo/Glimt is notable as the first Norwegian team to reach the semifinals of a major European competition.
Christian Pulisic ended his eight-game goalless streak for both club and country over the weekend, scoring in AC Milan`s victory over Venezia.
Betting Tips
Best Bets
- Championship: Leeds United vs. Bristol City – Pick: Anis Mehmeti to score (+290). While Leeds United have already secured promotion, Bristol City needs a win to clinch a spot in the promotion playoffs. With so much riding on the game, expect their most reliable goalscorer this season, Anis Mehmeti, to be a key figure. The Albania international has 12 goals this season and will be looking to end his recent eight-game goalless run in this crucial match before the potential playoffs.
Football Coverage Highlights
Morning Footy (Weekdays 8-10 a.m.): This morning show provides highlights, interviews, and major soccer storylines to help fans start their day informed. It is also available as a podcast.
Attacking Third (Tuesday, Thursday): The leading women`s soccer program is now a live studio show covering the USWNT, NWSL, and European domestic leagues throughout the year. Live streams are available on YouTube Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. ET, with a Sunday recap after the weekend`s NWSL matches.
Call it What You Want (Monday and Thursday): A weekly podcast featuring Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Tony Meola covering all aspects of the USMNT and the state of soccer in the United States. The show streams live on YouTube every Monday at 1 p.m. ET and Thursday at 6 p.m. ET.
Scoreline (Daily): This show is a central place for fans to catch up on all the biggest news and results from global football, featuring match highlights and notable goals from the day`s action. It airs seven days a week.
