Arteta Urges Arsenal to Deliver “Special” Comeback After PSG Defeat

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has challenged his team to deliver a standout performance in Paris after a narrow 1-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.

The French side took the lead early, with Ousmane Dembélé scoring in the fourth minute. Arsenal, although gradually improving, were unable to find an equaliser despite creating several promising chances.

PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma made critical saves, notably stopping efforts from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

PSG had opportunities to extend their lead, including a strike from Gonçalo Ramos that hit the crossbar and a close-range miss from Bradley Barcola.

Despite these let-offs, Arsenal couldn’t capitalise and now face the task of overturning the deficit away from home on May 7.

Arteta remained confident after the match. He believes Arsenal still have a strong chance of progressing to their first Champions League final since 2006. He highlighted the need for a determined and high-level performance in the return leg and noted that the team is fully capable of achieving the result required.

He also mentioned that a tactical adjustment made during the first half helped stabilise Arsenal’s performance after a poor start. Arteta acknowledged that missed chances, particularly one-on-one opportunities, were decisive, and underscored how fine the margins are in high-stakes European fixtures.

Meanwhile, PSG manager Luis Enrique praised his team’s ability to handle the Emirates Stadium’s intense atmosphere and take an early lead. He acknowledged Arsenal’s potential threat and stressed the importance of maintaining focus in the second leg, recognising that the London side remains capable of turning the tie around quickly.

Both sides now look ahead to the decisive second leg in Paris, with PSG holding a narrow advantage and Arsenal needing a standout showing to reach the final.