Paris Saint-Germain had a point to prove on Tuesday night as they traveled to London to face Arsenal FC in the semi-final of the UEFA Champions League. Having lost at the Emirates Stadium earlier in the season, PSG wanted to prove they are worthy contenders, and after 90 minutes, they left no doubt.
On this episode of PSG Talking, I’m joined by Marc Damon to recap the 1-0 win over the Gunners and look ahead to the pivotal return leg at the Parc des Princes.
First, we discuss the pre-match atmosphere, which included a lackluster tifo from the Arsenal supporters. We also get into the starting lineup and why we're unlikely to see many changes from Luis Enrique ahead of the second leg.
We get into the match next and discuss the opening goal from Ousmane Dembélé. Then there's the controversy surrounding Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, where Jurrien Timber appeared to make contact and bring him down in a rugby-style tackle in the box. Ultimately, a penalty wasn't given, but should VAR have overturned the decision? Arsenal also had a penalty shout when Mikel Merino went down, but on replay, João Neves clearly got the ball first before any contact was made.
In the second half, Arsenal really tested PSG's defense, and their highly orchestrated set-piece dance led to a goal from Merino. However, VAR ruled Merino offside, and the goal was waived off. We discuss Arsenal's strategy and whether they lost focus on the match while trying too hard to perfect their set-piece strategy.
Late in the match, Gianluigi Donnarumma proved once again why he is an elite goalkeeper. He made several world-class saves to keep the clean sheet. We discuss his performances in the Champions League and whether he will sign an extension to remain at PSG.
We wrap up the show by answering questions from listeners, including how the lineup could change if Dembélé can't go a full 90 minutes.
As always, thank you for listening. Be sure to subscribe and rate the show wherever you download your podcasts. For bonus episodes of PSG Talking, subscribe to PSG Talk Extra Time on Substack.
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