Paris Saint-Germain claimed a narrow yet significant 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to an early goal from winger Ousmane Dembélé.
The French international struck in the 4th minute, capping a brilliant 26-pass sequence that showcased PSG’s composure and tactical discipline. The early lead proved decisive in a tightly contested match, as both sides battled for control in one of European football’s most anticipated fixtures.
Despite Arsenal dominating possession in stretches and creating promising chances, they were unable to break through a well-organized PSG defense. Gianluigi Donnarumma, PSG’s goalkeeper, delivered a commanding performance, producing several key saves to preserve his side’s clean sheet.
Arsenal thought they had equalized late in the first half through Mikel Merino, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review. The decision deflated the home crowd’s momentum, while PSG continued to threaten on the counter through Kylian Mbappé and Bradley Barcola, although both were denied by either the post or poor finishing.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged his side’s slow start but expressed optimism heading into the second leg. “We’re disappointed with the result, but not the performance,” he said. “We grew into the game and created enough to score. It’s only half-time—we’re still very much in this tie.”
PSG’s head coach Luis Enrique praised his team’s discipline and execution. “It was a nearly perfect performance in terms of game management,” he commented. “We came here to score and to control the tempo. We achieved both, but the job is far from finished.”
This victory marks PSG’s first-ever win over Arsenal in UEFA competition and gives them a crucial advantage heading into the return leg in Paris on May 7, 2025.
Match Summary
- Final Score: Arsenal 0–1 Paris Saint-Germain
- Goal: Ousmane Dembélé (4’)
- Man of the Match: Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG)
- Venue: Emirates Stadium, London
- Attendance: 59,742
The winner of the two-legged tie will advance to the Champions League final in Munich on May 31, where they will face the victor between Barcelona and Inter Milan.
