PSG outclasses Arsenal in Champions League semifinal first leg
Paris Saint-Germain delivered a commanding performance at the Emirates, securing a crucial 1-0 away win over Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal. Ousmane Dembélé’s early strike (4’) set the tone for a match dominated by Luis Enrique’s side, who pressed aggressively and stifled the Gunners’ buildup.
The visitors came close to doubling their lead through Marquinhos’ header (14’) and a near-miss from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (26’), but Arsenal grew into the game before halftime. Gianluigi Donnarumma made key saves, notably denying Gabriel Martinelli (45’), to preserve PSG’s lead.
Arsenal thought they had equalized through Mikel Merino (47’), but VAR ruled it out. Despite sustained pressure, the hosts couldn’t beat Donnarumma, who stood firm against Leandro Trossard (56’).
Late substitutions, including Gonçalo Ramos, nearly sealed it for PSG, with the Portuguese hitting the bar (85’).
The French side will now look to finish the job in next week’s return leg at the Parc des Princes.
