Arsenal face a tough challenge in their bid to reach their first-ever Champions League final after falling to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain at the Emirates Stadium. A superb early goal by Ousmane Dembele was enough to hand the French champions the advantage heading into the second leg in Paris.
PSG struck early in style as Dembele finished off a stunning 26-pass move, combining with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to cut through Arsenal’s defense before firing in off the post. The visitors dominated the early phases, capitalizing on a sluggish start from the Gunners.
Despite improving as the match progressed, Arsenal were unable to find an equaliser. Gianluigi Donnarumma produced two vital saves to deny Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, while Mikel Merino saw his headed effort ruled out for offside. The North London side also survived a couple of late scares as PSG came close to doubling their lead.
Speaking after the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remained hopeful:
“We are going to have to do something special in Paris. We have to go there and win the game – we are more than capable of doing it. It’s half-time and we have a big chance to be in the final.”
Arteta admitted his side struggled early on, saying the opening 15 minutes were key, but praised their response and effort for the rest of the game.
History, however, is not on Arsenal’s side. The club has never progressed in European competition after losing the first leg at home – a record of five defeats in five.
PSG, meanwhile, will be confident heading back to Paris with the lead, but the tie remains finely poised. Arsenal must now produce a memorable performance at the Parc des Princes if they are to keep their Champions League dream alive.
