PSG Take Slim Lead Over Arsenal After Dembélé’s Early Strike

Paris Saint-Germain seized the initiative in their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie, defeating Arsenal 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium thanks to a fourth-minute goal from Ousmane Dembélé. The French winger’s early strike gives PSG a crucial advantage heading into next week’s decisive second leg in Paris.

Dembélé Strikes Early

PSG wasted no time asserting themselves, with Dembélé finishing clinically off the far post after being picked out by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, stunning the home crowd and putting Arsenal immediately on the back foot. The visitors dominated the opening stages, pressing high and threatening to extend their lead, while Arsenal struggled to cope with PSG’s pace and fluid attack.

Arsenal Respond, But PSG Hold Firm

After the early setback, Arsenal gradually found their footing. The hosts created chances, with Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard both forcing strong saves from PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, who continued his stellar Champions League form. Arsenal thought they had equalized after the break when Mikel Merino headed in a Declan Rice free-kick, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.

Despite Arsenal’s improvement, PSG remained dangerous on the counter. Substitute Bradley Barcola missed a clear opportunity and Gonçalo Ramos struck the crossbar late on, but the French side were unable to add to their lead.

Second Leg Still in the Balance

The result leaves the tie finely poised. Arsenal, playing in their first Champions League semi-final since 2009, must now overturn a one-goal deficit in Paris to keep their hopes of a first-ever Champions League title alive. PSG, meanwhile, are one step closer to the final in Munich, but know the job is far from finished.

The decisive second leg will take place next Wednesday at the Parc des Princes, with the winner set to face either Inter Milan or Barcelona in the final.

Final Score:

Arsenal 0–1 PSG (Dembélé 4’)

Arsenal will need a special performance in Paris, while PSG look to capitalize on their slender advantage and reach European football’s biggest stage.

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