UCL: Paris Saint-Germain v Arsenal

Opposition supporters not welcome.

"The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it."

Arsenal head to the Parc des Princes on Wednesday night needing a statement performance to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. Ousmane Dembélé's early strike at the Emirates left the Gunners chasing the game, but Mikel Arteta's side grew into the contest, particularly after the break, with Mikel Merino having an equaliser ruled out in the second half after a lengthy VAR review. However, they were unable to find the net despite dominant spells and key saves by PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Domestically, a 2-1 home defeat to Bournemouth at the weekend has compounded concerns over form and confidence, with Arsenal now winless in four of their last six matches. Martin Ødegaard's form and Jurrien Timber's health further complicate matters. However, Thomas Partey's return from suspension will be most welcome and could well prove decisive. With a place in the Champions League final at stake, Arsenal must channel their resilience and attacking prowess to overcome the challenge in Paris.

PSG, meanwhile, come into the second leg with the advantage and a squad bolstered by the return of Dembélé, who has resumed full training after a muscle injury. Luis Enrique's side suffered a 2-1 defeat at Strasbourg over the weekend, but with the Ligue 1 title already secured, the manager rotated heavily to keep key players fresh for Arsenal. PSG will be aiming to reach their first Champions League final since 2020, and with the home crowd behind them, they will be confident of finishing the job. However, history offers a cautionary tale: PSG have previously been eliminated after winning the first leg away from home, notably against Manchester United in 2019. Their visitors will be hoping to exploit any nerves and make their own history by reaching the final for the first time since 2006.

Once again, it's time to Pack. The. Pub. Whatever happens in Paris, let's find out, together. We are The Arsenal.

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