Bukayo Saka - Arsenal v PSG
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Arsenal face a daunting task trailing 1-0 as they head to Paris for the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.
However, several key statistics and tactical insights suggest the Gunners have a strong chance to reverse the deficit and reach their first Champions League final since 2006.
Firstly, Arsenal’s away form in Europe is formidable. The Gunners have won their last four Champions League away games, scoring 16 goals and conceding no more than once per match.
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Their 2-1 victory at Real Madrid’s Bernabeu in the quarter-finals, securing a 5-1 aggregate triumph, showcases their ability to perform under pressure in hostile environments. This resilience is crucial at the Parc des Princes, where PSG have lost twice at home this season, including a 3-1 Ligue 1 defeat to Nice.
Arsenal 5-1 Real Madrid
Tactically, Arsenal improved after a shaky first 20 minutes in the first leg, generating 1.6 expected goals (xG) between minutes 38-56, with Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli combining for six of their ten shots.
PSG’s defense, despite 19 clearances, showed vulnerability to set-pieces, conceding 38% of their goals from free-kicks or corners. Arsenal’s set-piece prowess, led by Nicolas Jover, remains a potent weapon, even if their 12 set-piece goals in the Premier League have tapered off in 2025.
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The return of Thomas Partey from suspension is a significant boost. His presence allows Declan Rice to play a more dynamic number eight role, enhancing midfield balance. Mikel Merino’s disallowed header in the first leg highlighted Arsenal’s aerial threat, which could exploit PSG’s weakness in the air.
While PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé poses a threat with 25 goals in 2025, their late misses by Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos suggest profligacy that Arsenal can capitalize on.
With seven shots inside the box and 83.8% passing accuracy in the first leg, Arsenal’s attacking output shows they can create chances. A disciplined, high-energy performance could see the Gunners pull off a historic comeback.
Arsenal have only ever lost once in France in the European top competition since 1970. The single defeat came in the Champions League group stage last season against RC Lens.
The Gunners have never lost in France on a Wednesday in their history. If they continue that this week, they’ll have a great chance to make it to the Champions League final for the first time in 19 years.
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