PSG’s Dembélé Strikes First in Champions League Semifinal Against Arsenal
In a thrilling UEFA Champions League semifinal first-leg match at the Emirates Stadium, Ousmane Dembélé delivered a crucial blow to Arsenal’s hopes by scoring the only goal in Paris Saint-Germain’s 1-0 victory. The French winger’s performance not only gave PSG a significant advantage but also highlighted the gap in Arsenal’s attacking prowess.
Dembélé, who has been a standout performer this season with 45 goal involvements in 45 games, found the net in the fourth minute, giving Luis Enrique’s team a strong foothold in the tie. However, the match wasn’t without its drama, as Dembélé limped off in the second half, raising concerns about his availability for the return leg.
Despite PSG’s dominance, they missed opportunities to extend their lead, with Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos both failing to capitalize on clear chances in the final minutes. This left the door open for Arsenal, who will travel to Paris with hopes of a comeback.
Arsenal’s Mikel Merino had a goal disallowed for offside, and PSG’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma made crucial saves to deny Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, keeping the Gunners at bay.
While PSG holds a slight advantage, the tie remains alive, and Arsenal will look to turn the tables in the second leg. The Gunners’ decision not to strengthen their forward line last summer or in January, when they had a bid for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins rejected, could prove costly in their quest for European glory.
Dembélé’s Clinical Finish Highlights Arsenal’s Striker Woes
Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal were evident as they failed to find the back of the net against PSG. With injuries to key forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino was forced to fill in at center forward. However, Thomas Partey’s suspension saw Merino return to midfield, leaving Leandro Trossard to lead the line.
Dembélé’s goal, a brilliant finish via David Raya’s left-hand post, showcased the kind of clinical finishing Arsenal has been missing. His 25th goal of the season is the most by any player in Europe’s top five leagues in 2025, underscoring his status as one of the continent’s best forwards.
Arsenal’s lack of a top-class striker could be the reason they fell short in challenging Liverpool for the Premier League title, and they are now 90 minutes away from facing the same issue in Europe.
PSG’s Dominance Over Premier League Teams Continues
Paris Saint-Germain’s impressive run against Premier League opposition continued with their victory over Arsenal. Having already defeated Manchester City, Liverpool, and Aston Villa in this season’s competition, PSG is edging closer to the Champions League final.
Despite a previous defeat to Arsenal in the league phase, PSG made amends with Dembélé’s early goal and a resolute defensive display. Arsenal, however, will take heart from Liverpool’s success in Paris earlier in the competition and aim to replicate it in the second leg.
Luis Enrique’s Tactical Mastery Deserves Recognition
While Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona teams are often celebrated, Luis Enrique’s achievements with PSG should not be overlooked. Having guided Barcelona to a treble in 2015, Enrique has now built an exciting PSG side, focusing on youth and technique rather than relying on superstars like Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé.
If Enrique can lead PSG to their first Champions League title, he will finally step out of Guardiola’s shadow and earn the recognition he deserves.
Kvaratskhelia Outshines Saka in Key Battle
In a matchup of two of Europe’s brightest young talents, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia got the better of Bukayo Saka. The Georgian winger was a constant threat down Arsenal’s right side, providing the assist for Dembélé’s goal and making Jurriën Timber look ordinary.
Saka, who had shone in Arsenal’s quarterfinal win over Real Madrid, struggled to make an impact and will need to raise his game in the second leg, along with Martin Ødegaard and other key players.
PSG’s Depth Exposes Arsenal’s Limitations
Arsenal’s lack of squad depth was evident as PSG introduced high-profile substitutes like Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos, while the Gunners relied on academy graduates and out-of-favor players.
With Thomas Partey set to return for the second leg, Arsenal will hope his presence can make a difference. However, the lack of options could prove their undoing in their quest to overturn the deficit in Paris.
- PSG’s depth and quality were on full display, highlighting Arsenal’s need for reinforcements.
- Arsenal’s reliance on young players and out-of-form stars could be a key factor in the second leg.
- Partey’s return will be crucial for Arsenal’s hopes of a comeback.
As the second leg approaches, both teams will be eager to secure their place in the final, with PSG looking to capitalize on their advantage and Arsenal aiming for a memorable comeback.
Originally Written by: Mark Ogden,James Olley
