Paris Saint-Germain took a crucial step toward their first Champions League title with a 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of their semifinal clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
Ousmane Dembele scored the decisive goal just four minutes into the game, finishing off a swift counterattack he initiated, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia providing the assist. The French champions then produced a composed performance to keep Arsenal at bay and carry a slim advantage into the return leg at the Parc des Princes on May 7.
The result ended Arsenal’s 18-match unbeaten home run in European competition and dealt a blow to their hopes of lifting a maiden Champions League trophy. Despite their spirited effort — and a disallowed second-half goal by Mikel Merino — the Gunners struggled to match their earlier form that had seen them knock out Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate in the quarterfinals.
Dembele’s early strike underscored PSG’s renewed strength, especially after having previously beaten Liverpool and Aston Villa in the knockout stages. Arsenal did create chances, with Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard both denied by standout saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma. However, they couldn’t find a breakthrough.
Late in the game, PSG missed two golden opportunities to double their lead, with Bradley Barcola shooting wide and Goncalo Ramos rattling the crossbar.
Luis Enrique’s side will now look to finish the job in Paris, but they’ll be wary of past European slip-ups. Arsenal, meanwhile, must regroup quickly if they are to keep their Champions League dream alive.
