PSG defy recent form with impressive Champions League win over Arsenal

Ousmane Dembele scored the only goal of the match just four minutes in, finishing a well-worked move initiated by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia down the left flank. 

The French winger’s 33rd goal of the season proved decisive, though he was forced off with a muscle issue later in the game, a potential concern ahead of the return leg.

Arsenal, making its first Champions League semifinal appearance in 16 years, were repeatedly denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma’s brilliance in goal as it searched for an equalizer. 

The Italian goalkeeper made several crucial saves, notably from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, to preserve PSG's lead and secure a valuable clean sheet on the road. Mikel Merino thought he had equalized shortly after the break, heading in a Declan Rice free-kick, but VAR ruled the Arsenal midfielder offside. 

The Gunners were then pinned back in the closing stages, with PSG's substitute Bradley Barcola dragging a shot just wide and Goncalo Ramos striking the crossbar. PSG could have extended its lead but failed to capitalize on the chances.

Rice was a standout for Mikel Arteta’s side, orchestrating play in midfield and exploiting the spaces between PSG's lines. However, Arsenal’s inability to convert possession into goals proved costly, leaving it with an uphill battle in Paris.

"If you want to win the Champions League final, you have to do something special, and we are going to have to do something special in Paris to be there,” said Arteta post-match, via Sky Sports. “We still have a lot of chances to be in that final.”

"We will surely make some adjustments, and depending on the context of the game, we will make more adjustments.”

PSG's win marks a significant statement for a side whose domestic dominance has often failed to translate into European success. Criticized for their form earlier in the season, Enrique's men now appear to be peaking at the right time.

The second leg at Parc des Princes promises to be a tense affair. Arsenal’s strong away form offers hope, but the Gunners will need to find the cutting edge that eluded them in London. 

For PSG, one more composed performance could secure a place in just its second-ever Champions League final and keep its European dream alive.