Arsenal vs. PSG: Match Preview, Predictions, Odds & Lineups

The UEFA Champions League semi-finals are set to commence on Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal will host Paris Saint-Germain in a high-stakes encounter, with both teams vying for a place in next month`s final.

For Arsenal, this match represents their first appearance in a Champions League semi-final in 16 years. In stark contrast, PSG is reaching this stage for an impressive fourth time in the last six seasons. The two sides previously met during the group phase in North London, a match that Arsenal won 2-0. However, six months have passed since then, and a winter transfer window has significantly transformed the French champions. PSG are now regarded as the second favorites to lift the Champions League trophy, promising a highly competitive tie for both clubs.

Arsenal recently showcased their growing capabilities under manager Mikel Arteta with a dominant performance against Real Madrid, highlighted by two exceptional set-piece goals from Declan Rice. This display marked a new peak in their upward trajectory. While PSG is currently chasing a potential treble and adapting to the new tactical direction set by Luis Enrique, Arsenal may feel the need to secure a trophy in Arteta`s fifth season to demonstrate continued progress rather than having plateaued. The context for each team heading into this tie is distinct.

How to watch

Last meeting

The previous encounter in October saw Arsenal secure a relatively comfortable 2-0 victory with goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka. Arsenal was highly efficient on that day, putting five of their six shots on target and winning the expected goals battle (0.71 xG to the visitors` 0.4 xG from 10 shots). It was a rather unimpressive outing for Enrique`s side at the time, reflecting the challenges of their group stage draw and initially tempering expectations for their first season without Kylian Mbappé. However, the mood and performance level in the French capital have changed considerably since that match.

What Arsenal are saying

Champions League semi-finals are infrequent events in Arsenal`s recent history, particularly when facing opponents with more experience at this elite stage. Nevertheless, the Gunners carry a different level of confidence after their statement victory over Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, which has resulted in a clear mindset shift for the hosts. As manager Mikel Arteta expressed in his pre-match comments, Arsenal now matches their talent with a firm belief that they can go all the way in the competition. He emphasized the importance of visualizing victory, feeling convinced, and creating energy within the team to maximize their chances of winning the game.

What Paris Saint-Germain are saying

Reaching the Champions League semi-finals naturally brings confidence, especially for a PSG side that has surprised many with their deep run this season. Coach Luis Enrique noted the positive impact of their current form. He acknowledged the reputation of the Premier League as potentially the best league in the world but stated that PSG is full of confidence and looking forward to competing in the semi-final. While Arsenal is the one English team they haven`t defeated recently, Enrique argued that his PSG team is significantly different and more complete now compared to the side that played in North London in the fall.

Predicted lineups

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

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

Player to watch

Declan Rice, Arsenal: While Arsenal`s attacking performance against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals was impressive (scoring five goals), the foundation was their exceptionally solid defense, which effectively shut down Los Blancos` star-studded attack over two legs. Declan Rice was pivotal to this defensive effort, expertly disrupting opposition play, with his two set-piece goals in the first leg being a significant bonus. Facing a PSG side known for their intense press and attacking threat, Rice will once again be crucial in providing defensive stability and disrupting the visitors` rhythm. His performance could be key in helping Arsenal edge closer to their first Champions League final in nearly two decades.

Storyline to watch

Paris Saint-Germain on treble watch: Only two teams remain in contention for a treble this season: Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona. PSG has already secured the Ligue 1 title and is set to contest the Coupe de France final. While a domestic double was largely anticipated regardless, their performance in the Champions League will truly define their season and serve as the measuring stick for this youth-focused version of Luis Enrique`s team in the coming years. Even before the semi-final kicks off, they have impressed many and are widely considered one of Europe`s most entertaining sides. The pressing question, which has persisted since they navigated the earlier rounds, is just how high they can ultimately climb, both in this tournament and in the near future.

Prediction

As suggested by Thierry Henry, this PSG team could potentially be a tougher opponent than Real Madrid. Luis Enrique has masterfully reshaped his side into an attacking force that effectively challenges opponents through their unique pressing system. Even against a defense as talented as Arsenal`s, facing PSG`s dynamic attack presents a distinct challenge that might slightly favor the visitors. Expect a competitive first leg, which could potentially tip in PSG`s favor ahead of the decisive return match in Paris next week.

Pick: Arsenal 1, Paris Saint-Germain 2

Semifinals TV schedule