The Champions League semi-finals are set to deliver drama and high-stakes football as Arsenal host PSG at the Emirates and Barcelona welcome Inter Milan to the Camp Nou.
Arsenal vs PSG: Gunners Seek Redemption Amid Injury Woes
Arsenal’s title hopes in the Premier League may be over, but their European dream is still alive. Mikel Arteta’s side head into their semi-final clash against PSG unbeaten in 12 matches, though six of those ended in draws. With midfielders Thomas Partey suspended and Jorginho injured, Mikel Merino is expected to return to anchor the midfield after a brief spell on the sidelines. Arsenal’s backline remains depleted, but William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior offer stability, with young Myles Lewis-Skelly likely to continue at left-back.
PSG manager Luis Enrique has a full squad at his disposal, though a surprising 3-1 league defeat to Nice shows cracks in their domestic armor. The attacking trio remains fluid, with Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola fighting for a starting role alongside Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. While PSG’s Champions League campaign has dazzled at times—knocking out Liverpool and Aston Villa—they remain inconsistent, having lost five times in the competition. Arsenal’s 2-0 victory in the group stage offers a psychological edge.
Prediction: Arsenal to advance
Barcelona vs Inter: Flick Eyes Treble Triumph in Debut Season
Barcelona enter the semi-finals on a high, fresh from a Copa del Rey final win over Real Madrid. Hansi Flick’s men are unbeaten in 2025 save for one match and top La Liga by four points. Goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen is back in the squad after a long injury layoff, though Wojciech Szczesny is expected to retain the gloves following standout performances.
Despite the absence of Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona’s attack remains sharp with Ferran Torres likely to start up front, supported by Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Raphinha. Key midfielders Pedri and Frenkie de Jong are expected to recover in time to feature.
Inter arrive in poor form, having gone four games without a win and recently losing top spot in Serie A. A mounting injury list compounds their issues—Benjamin Pavard is sidelined, and Marcus Thuram may only be fit enough for the bench. With confidence low and Barcelona flying, Simone Inzaghi’s men face an uphill battle.
