PSG Edge Arsenal in Tight Champions League Semi-Final First Leg

Arsenal will head to Paris with work to do after falling 1-0 to Paris Saint-Germain in a tense Champions League semi-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium. Despite a spirited display and several chances, Mikel Arteta’s side couldn’t break through, leaving PSG with a slender advantage.

Dembele’s Early Strike the Difference

The visitors struck early when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia burst down the left and cut the ball back for Ousmane Dembele, who calmly finished from the edge of the box. Dembele frequently exploited the space between Arsenal’s midfield and defence — a gap perhaps better guarded had Thomas Partey not been suspended.

Partey’s absence forced Arteta to reshuffle, moving Declan Rice deeper and deploying Mikel Merino in midfield. It disrupted Arsenal’s balance early, allowing PSG to dominate the ball and territory.

Timber vs Kvaratskhelia: A Key Battle

One of the standout duels saw Jurrien Timber — one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers this season — tested by the lively Kvaratskhelia. The Georgian winger’s pace and directness caused problems in the first half, culminating in his assist for the opening goal. Timber settled in the second period as Arsenal gained more control.

Arsenal’s Missed Opportunities

Despite PSG’s early dominance, Arsenal created good chances. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard both went close, while PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma made two crucial saves to preserve his clean sheet.

Declan Rice, whose pre-match rallying cry insisted Arsenal had to dominate possession or "die," saw his fears partly realised as PSG controlled much of the first half. Though Arsenal fought back in the second, they ultimately fell short.

Small Margins in a Close Contest

Arteta admitted afterwards that "small margins" made the difference. “You can’t dominate a team like PSG for 95 minutes,” he said. “We had our moments, and I’m proud of how we competed. Now we have to go to Paris and do something special.”

PSG Cautious Ahead of Second Leg

Luis Enrique was satisfied with his side’s display but warned the tie is far from over. “It’s a small advantage,” he said. “We’ll suffer in Paris — Arsenal are a great side. We could have scored a second, but it’s going to be a difficult night next week.”

PSG might be without Dembele, who limped off with a hamstring issue, though Enrique remained confident in his squad depth.

All to Play For

It’s only half-time in the tie, and with Partey set to return and Arsenal chasing their first Champions League final appearance in years, the second leg at the Parc des Princes promises to be a blockbuster.

Elevate your betting experience with SKY247 Nigeria. Join now and discover a thrilling world of sports, live events, and exclusive bonuses. Bet with confidence on your favorite teams and games.