PSG vs. Arsenal Tips and Odds – 07/05/2025

• Fixture: Paris Saint-Germain vs Arsenal (Champions League Semi-Final, Second Leg)
• Date: Wednesday, 7 May 2025
• Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris

Match Preview

The Parc des Princes is set for a blockbuster Champions League semi-final second leg as Paris Saint-Germain host Arsenal, with the French side holding a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg. Ousmane Dembélé’s early strike at the Emirates has given PSG a crucial edge, but both teams know there is everything to play for in Paris. The atmosphere will be electric as PSG aim for their first-ever Champions League crown, while Arsenal look to reach their first final since 2006.

PSG come into this tie after a strong domestic campaign, already crowned Ligue 1 champions and boasting a formidable home record. They have lost their last two league games, ending hopes of an unbeaten domestic season, but manager Luis Enrique has rotated heavily in the league to keep his stars fresh for Arsenal. The big question for PSG is the fitness of Dembélé, who strained his hamstring in the first leg. While his injury is described as minor and he is making good progress, he will be assessed right up to matchday. Presnel Kimpembe remains out with a foot injury, limiting defensive options at the back.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have had a busy and emotionally draining April, playing eight matches across competitions. Their form has been mixed: a gritty 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace, a thumping 4-0 win at Ipswich, and a hard-fought 2-1 away victory over Real Madrid in the previous Champions League round. However, they suffered a home defeat by Bournemouth in their most recent match and injuries have taken a toll. Gabriel is out for the season after hamstring surgery, and the likes of Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Takehiro Tomiyasu have also missed key fixtures. Despite these setbacks, Jakub Kiwior has stepped up in defense, and Bukayo Saka’s recent return has boosted attacking options.

Tactically, expect PSG to play on the front foot but with caution, knowing Arsenal need to chase the game. The Gunners’ 4-3-3 system under Mikel Arteta has excelled in big European nights, and their away record in the Champions League this season is impressive. Both sides are well-matched in terms of attacking output and pass accuracy, suggesting an open, high-quality contest. Set pieces and wide play could be decisive, especially with both teams generating plenty of shots and corners in recent matches.

Key Players

• Paris Saint-Germain:
  • Ousmane Dembélé (fitness permitting): 33 goals in all competitions, 8 goals and 3 assists in the Champions League.
  • Achraf Hakimi: Provides width and pace from right-back.
  • Vitinha & Warren Zaïre-Emery: Midfield engines who control tempo and transitions.
  • Gianluigi Donnarumma: A big-game goalkeeper with match-winning potential.
• Arsenal:
  • Bukayo Saka: Recently returned from injury, crucial for creativity and goals.
  • Declan Rice: Arsenal’s Player of the Month for April, key in midfield battles.
  • Jakub Kiwior: Stepped up in defense after Gabriel’s injury.
  • Leandro Trossard: Versatile and dangerous in the final third.

Prediction

This tie is finely poised. PSG’s home advantage and slight lead make them favorites to progress, but Arsenal’s resilience and attacking threat mean they are far from out of it. Expect both teams to score, with the match likely to be open and full of chances. However, PSG’s edge at home and Arsenal’s defensive absentees could be decisive. Prediction: PSG 2-1 Arsenal (PSG advance 3-1 on aggregate).

Betting Markets & Odds

This semi-final promises drama, quality, and the kind of tension only the Champions League can deliver.