Arsenal’s unbeaten run at the Emirates in this season’s UEFA Champions League came to an abrupt end on Tuesday night as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final first leg.
The only goal of the game came early, with Usman Dembélé capitalizing on a defensive lapse to fire PSG ahead in the 4th minute.
Despite dominating large spells of possession and pushing for an equalizer, Arsenal were unable to break through the French side’s disciplined defense.
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There was a brief moment of celebration for the home fans early in the second half when Mikel Merino found the back of the net in the 47th minute, but the goal was swiftly ruled out—reportedly for offside in the build-up, following a VAR review.
Despite the disappointment, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remained optimistic. “We’ve been here before,” he said post-match. “We’ll regroup and go to Paris with belief.”
The Gunners will now prepare for the decisive second leg at the Parc des Princes next Wednesday, needing at least a goal to keep their hopes of reaching the Champions League final alive.