Arsenal-PSG 0–1 in Champions League Semi-Final First Leg | xG & Tactical Breakdown

Score: Arsenal 0–1 Paris Saint-Germain
Date: April 29, 2025
Competition: UEFA Champions League – Semi-Final (1st Leg)
Formations: Arsenal 4–3–3 | PSG 4–3–3
Match Time: 97 mins
Active Play: 50 mins
xG: Arsenal 1.1 – 1.0 PSG
xT: Arsenal 0.9 – 0.6 PSG

Arsenal vs PSG: Game Summary & Match Stats

The player is awarded a rating for each game based on how well their performance compared to other players in the same position, benchmarked across historical data.

Analysis: Arsenal – PSG

Paris Saint-Germain took a narrow but valuable lead in the Champions League semi-final thanks to an early goal by Ousmane Dembélé. It was a tight and disciplined clash, with both teams matching each other in most areas — but it’s PSG who hold the advantage heading into the second leg.

xG Timeline

Arsenal generated more xG across the match (1.1), but failed to convert. PSG’s early chance (and goal) made up the bulk of their total 1.0 xG, showing their efficiency.

xT Timeline

Arsenal had more overall territorial threat (0.9 xT) and sustained pressure from the 35th minute onward. PSG were more conservative after taking the lead, dropping deeper and absorbing Arsenal’s push.

Shotmap

Arsenal’s shots were clustered around the penalty spot but with tight angles. PSG had fewer chances, but the goal came from a clean central position — making the difference.

Possession & Progression

Both teams had nearly even possession (48%–52%), However, PSG’s accuracy and calmness in midfield helped them control key transitions.

Best Players

David Raya – Arsenal – 8.0

João Neves – PSG – 7.5

Marquinhos – PSG – 6.9

Final Thoughts

A tight first leg with few openings, where PSG’s early strike and compact defensive shape were enough to grab a valuable away win. Arsenal had the better stats in xG and xT — but finishing let them down. The tie remains very much alive.