PSG Takes First-Leg Advantage Over Arsenal in Champions League Semi-Final

Paris Saint-Germain seized a narrow advantage in the Champions League semi-final by defeating Arsenal 1-0 in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, courtesy of Ousmane Dembele’s early fourth-minute goal. PSG dominated the opening stages, displaying sharp movement and nearly scoring again through chances from Marquinhos, Desire Doué, Bradley Barcola, and Gonçalo Ramos, but Arsenal’s David Raya made key saves to keep the deficit manageable. Arsenal gradually improved and created opportunities, with Gianluigi Donnarumma denying Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, and a Mikel Merino goal was ruled out by VAR for offside. Despite PSG’s control for much of the match, the tie remains open, with Arsenal still harboring hopes of a comeback in the second leg at the Parc des Princes. The result sets up a tense return fixture, where PSG will be favorites given their home advantage, but Arsenal’s need to attack could provide a thrilling encounter. The winner will face either Inter Milan or Barcelona in the final.