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Ousmane Dembélé fired Paris Saint-Germain to a 1–0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final on Wednesday night, delivering a crucial away goal at the Emirates Stadium.
PSG started with intent and were rewarded just four minutes into the match. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia delivered a low cross into the box, which Dembélé expertly guided into the net, ending a five-game goal drought in all competitions.
The early strike proved decisive and provided the Ligue 1 champions with the ideal platform for the remainder of the match.
Parisians Keep Arsenal On The Back Foot
Maintaining their intensity, the visitors pressed aggressively and nearly doubled their lead in the 31st minute.
Desore Doué’s powerful effort drew a sharp save from David Raya, and Fabián Ruiz struck the rebound against the woodwork, letting Arsenal off the hook.
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Despite PSG’s early dominance, Arsenal found encouragement late in the first half. Myles Lewis-Skelly slipped a precise ball through to Gabriel Martinelli, whose shot was well saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma, keeping the visitors ahead at the break.
After half-time, Arsenal further continued to push for an equaliser. Mikel Merino briefly thought he had levelled the score when he headed in Declan Rice’s free-kick, but the flag went up for offside.
Soon after, Leandro Trossard surged towards goal only to see his left-footed attempt turned wide by the vigilant Donnarumma.
PSG Close Out The Win With Composure
As the second half wore on, PSG tightened their grip on the match. Their compact shape and patient possession play frustrated the hosts, limiting Arsenal’s chances.
In the closing stages, the French side came close to extending their lead when Gonçalo Ramos fired over the bar from close range in the 85th minute.
Dembélé’s goal further marked a personal milestone, as he became the first French player to score for PSG in a Champions League semi-final.
The forward now boasts eight goals in nine Champions League appearances in 2025, including seven in his last five away games.
Coach Luis Enrique Reflects On Tight Contest
“With emotions high, it’s difficult to analyse the game,” said PSG head coach Luis Enrique after the match. “We tried to play our way, scored early, suffered at times, and could have added a second. The second leg will be very tough.”
PSG will now return to Parc des Princes with a slender advantage for the return leg next Wednesday, knowing a place in the Champions League final is within reach.
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