PSG Secures Narrow Victory Over Arsenal in Champions League Semifinal First Leg

LONDON: A goal early in the match from Ousmane Dembele propelled Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to a 1-0 triumph against Arsenal in the initial leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal clash, held at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.

The French forward found the net in the 4th minute, capitalizing on an accurate pass from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia with a superb strike, giving PSG an advantage as they head into the second leg.

Luis Enrique’s squad asserted control in the first half, maintaining possession and generating more opportunities than the home side. They nearly extended their lead, but a crucial save from Arsenal’s goalkeeper, David Raya, prevented them.

On the defensive end, Gianluigi Donnarumma stood firm as PSG’s goalkeeper, executing multiple vital saves to thwart Arsenal’s attempts. The visiting team also effectively contained Bukayo Saka, diminishing his impact on the game.

Donnarumma, previously vital in PSG’s knockout stage victories—making penalty saves against Liverpool and delivering a match-winning performance against Aston Villa—sustained his impressive form.

“It was a fantastic night for the team,” commented PSG midfielder Vitinha. “We controlled the ball for a significant portion of the game. We adapted well to different phases of the match, both offensively and defensively.”

After a shaky beginning, Arsenal gained momentum and pressed for an equalizing goal. Mikel Merino believed he had leveled the score, but his goal was ultimately disallowed.

The outcome was a setback for Arsenal, who are participating in their first Champions League semifinal since 2009. Nevertheless, goalkeeper David Raya expressed ongoing optimism.

“From the 25th minute onward, we demonstrated our ability to compete with any team. This season has shown that we are capable of winning away from home, so we will travel to Paris next week aiming to achieve the necessary result,” Raya stated.

The decisive second leg is scheduled for Thursday, May 8, at Parc des Princes in Paris, where the two teams will vie for a spot in the Champions League final.