Dembele Strikes as PSG Sink Arsenal in Champions League Semi-Final Edge

Paris Saint-Germain secured a narrow advantage in their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie with a 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium. The decisive moment came early in the contest, as Ousmane Dembele found the net within the opening minutes. The French side maintained composure throughout the match, restricting Arsenal’s attacking efforts and preserving their lead ahead of the second leg in Paris on May 7.

PSG, who have never lifted the Champions League trophy, now stand one match away from a potential final against either Barcelona or Inter Milan. While their current position is favorable, the club’s track record in European knockout rounds has often been marked by dramatic collapses. Head coach Luis Enrique acknowledged the slender nature of their lead, emphasizing both confidence in his team’s performance and caution about the task ahead.

Arsenal, making their first semi-final appearance since 2009, suffered their first home defeat in European competition in 18 matches. Manager Mikel Arteta characterized their campaign as a meaningful journey and urged optimism, noting that the tie is only at its midpoint. Despite struggling in the initial phase of the game, Arteta believed his team had done enough to merit at least a draw.

Tactical Edge and Missed Opportunities

PSG entered the match with momentum, having previously eliminated Liverpool and Aston Villa in the knockout stages and overcome Manchester City during the league phase. However, they had fallen to Arsenal 2-0 in the group stage at the same venue last October. In that match, Dembele had been absent due to disciplinary action. His presence this time proved pivotal.

The opening goal was crafted with precision. Dembele gained control near midfield, then passed wide to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who advanced aggressively before returning the ball to Dembele with a measured delivery. The French winger converted with a strike that ricocheted in off the far post. The sequence highlighted PSG’s fluid transition play and Dembele’s sharpness in the final third.

Dembele continued to trouble Arsenal’s defense, linking up effectively with Desire Doue, whose shot required a strong save from goalkeeper David Raya. Arsenal’s best chance of the first half came shortly before the break, when Myles Lewis-Skelly split PSG’s back line with a precise pass to Gabriel Martinelli. The Brazilian forward’s shot, however, was denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Early in the second half, Arsenal thought they had equalized. Mikel Merino’s header from a Declan Rice free-kick found the net, but a VAR review overturned the goal for offside. Moments later, Leandro Trossard came close again, forcing another fine save from Donnarumma after being released by Rice.

PSG Seek to Consolidate as Arsenal Chase Response

Sensing Arsenal’s growing rhythm, PSG adjusted their approach. They reduced the tempo, focusing on possession to limit the Gunners’ attacking flow. The strategy nearly delivered a second goal when Bradley Barcola broke through the defense but failed to convert, dragging his shot wide with only Raya to beat.

In the closing minutes, PSG had another opportunity to extend their lead. Goncalo Ramos struck the crossbar from close range, leaving Luis Enrique visibly frustrated on the sidelines. Despite the missed chances, PSG’s disciplined display ensured they carried a lead back to the Parc des Princes.

Arsenal must now overturn the deficit in Paris to reach their first Champions League final. PSG, meanwhile, remain in control but aware that the job is far from complete. With both teams eyeing a historic place in the final, the return leg promises a high-stakes conclusion to this semi-final encounter.