Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain: UEFA Champions League Semifinal Preview

The UEFA Champions League reaches the semifinal stage on Tuesday as Arsenal welcomes Paris Saint-Germain to the Emirates Stadium, with both teams vying for a place in the upcoming final.

This match ends Arsenal`s 16-year absence from the Champions League semifinals, contrasting with PSG`s fourth appearance at this stage in six seasons. The sides previously met in the group phase in North London, a match Arsenal won 2-0. However, the French champions have evolved significantly in the past six months and are now considered second favorites for the tournament, setting the stage for a closely contested tie.

Arsenal is coming off a dominant performance against Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, a result that highlights their progress under Mikel Arteta. The two clubs are at different points in their development; PSG is chasing a treble and showcasing a new tactical approach under Luis Enrique, while Arsenal, in Arteta`s fifth year, might need silverware to demonstrate continued growth.

Here`s a preview of the key aspects before the match.

How to watch Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain, odds

• Date: Tuesday, April 29 | Time: 3 p.m. ET
• Location: Emirates Stadium — London, England
• TV: CBS | Live stream: Paramount+ (Star Cam: CBS Sports Golazo Network)
• Odds: Arsenal +105; Draw +250; Paris Saint-Germain +250

Last meeting

The last encounter saw Arsenal secure a comfortable 2-0 victory in October, with goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. Arsenal were efficient, converting five of six shots on target and outperforming PSG in expected goals (0.71 xG vs 0.4 xG from 10 shots). It was a subdued display from Enrique`s side, influencing early expectations for their post-Mbappe era, but their form has shifted significantly since then.

What Arsenal are saying

For Arsenal, reaching the Champions League semifinals is a rare event, especially against a team with PSG`s recent experience. However, their strong quarterfinal showing against Real Madrid has instilled a new level of confidence. Manager Mikel Arteta discussed this mindset shift, emphasizing the belief required to succeed. He stated on Monday, “It`s just visualising it… You go on that pitch thinking we`re going to beat them… That`s what I feel in the team. That we are really looking forward to playing the game tomorrow and we`re going to give our very best to win the game.”

What Paris Saint-Germain are saying

Paris Saint-Germain approaches the match with confidence, bolstered by their unexpected deep run in the competition. Their track record against English clubs this season is positive, having beaten Manchester City, Liverpool, and Aston Villa. Coach Luis Enrique commented on their form against Premier League sides, saying on Monday, “In terms of confidence, it is very positive for us… Everybody speaks about the Premier League as being the best league in the world. I don`t know if I agree or not. But we are full of confidence and looking forward to playing in the semifinal.”

Enrique acknowledged the earlier loss to Arsenal but argued that PSG is a much improved side now. He stated, “The game that you are talking about took place on 1 October… There are huge differences between now and then. I have reviewed the game, and seen how far our game has come and we are better now. We are a more complete team.”

Predicted lineups

Arsenal: David Raya; Jurien Timber, Wlliam Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino; Bakayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli

Paris Saint-Germain: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Joao Neves, Vitinha, FabianRuiz ; Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Player to watch

Declan Rice, Arsenal: While Arsenal`s offense shone against Real Madrid, their robust defense laid the foundation. Declan Rice was pivotal, effectively disrupting Real Madrid`s attack, in addition to scoring two goals in the first leg. Facing PSG`s aggressive press and attacking prowess, Rice`s ability to shield the defense and control midfield will be crucial in Arsenal`s bid to reach their first Champions League final in nearly two decades.

Storyline to watch

Paris Saint-Germain on treble watch: PSG is one of only two teams still in contention for a treble, having already secured the Ligue 1 title and favored to win the Coupe de France. Their Champions League performance will ultimately define their season and serve as a benchmark for this revitalized, youth-focused squad under Enrique. Their entertaining style has impressed many, raising the question of how far this team can go, both now and in the future.

Prediction

As noted by Thierry Henry, this PSG side, with Enrique`s tactical innovations and pressing game, could be a tougher opponent than Real Madrid. Their unique approach might slightly favor the visitors. While a competitive first leg is expected, PSG may gain a slight advantage before the return leg in Paris. Prediction: Arsenal 1, Paris Saint-Germain 2

Semifinals TV schedule

All times U.S./Eastern