Old Trafford was witness to yet another magical European night as Manchester United came back from a goal down to thrash Athletic Club 4-1 in the Europa League semi-final second leg on Thursday.
An aggregate win of 7-1 against La Liga’s meanest defence is no mean feat and sets it up brilliantly for the final against Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao in 13 days’ time.
Despite an aggregate 3-0 lead, it was a tough start for the hosts as the Basque side dominated the first 45 minutes, getting a goal in the 31st minute.
They put the home side under a lot of pressure at the start of the second half, which Leny Yoro helped weather on his own at times. That prompted Ruben Amorim to make a triple substitution, which changed the game completely.
Brilliant cameo
Mason Mount grabbed a brace, while Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund got in on the act as well. And the head coach did not fail to mention Amad’s contribution as well.
In 27 minutes, he grabbed the assist for Hojlund’s goal, which he put on a plate for the Dane after fabulous work down the right.
His ability to maneuver in tight areas and dribble past players is magical to witness and on Thursday, he completed a 100% of his dribbles during his cameo.
He had one shot which was blocked while three of his touches were inside the penalty box while one of his passes was into the final third.
Selection dilemma for Amorim
Not only with the ball, the Ivorian was class off it as well, recovering the ball twice while winning all his ground duels as well as aerial duels (all stats via fotmob).
This display will certainly make Amorim think about who he is going to start either side of the attacker against Spurs at the San Mames on May 21.
While Alejandro Garnacho runs straight at defenders, and is very direct, the Ivory Coast international can do a lot of different things and it is good for the head coach to have multiple options ahead of the biggest game of the season.
Amad’s return from injury has been timed just right with the 22-year-old netting once and assisting one in his last two substitute appearances.
Date: Wednesday night Kick-off: 20:00 Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris Occasion: UEFA Champions League Semi-Final (2nd Leg)
Football fans, buckle up—because we’re heading to the Parc des Princes for a continental heavyweight showdown that could define the season for both clubs. Paris Saint-Germain host Arsenal in what promises to be an electrifying second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final. PSG have the slenderest of leads thanks to their 1-0 win in North London, but the Gunners aren’t out of the fight yet—not by a long shot.
This isn’t just any semi-final. This is a clash of two titans desperate to shake off past UCL heartbreaks and write a new chapter. For PSG, it’s a golden chance to finally get their hands on that elusive first Champions League trophy. For Arsenal, it’s about proving to the world that their rebuild under Mikel Arteta can deliver on the biggest stage of all.
Let’s dive in, Gooners and Parisiens—this one is going to be a rollercoaster.
The Story So Far
PSG landed the first blow. Ousmane Dembele’s early strike at the Emirates gave Luis Enrique’s side a crucial away win and a one-goal cushion heading into the return leg. While the scoreline was tight, PSG were electric in the opening 20 minutes—swarming the ball, pressing like demons, and carving Arsenal open with pace and flair.
But Arsenal regrouped. They settled into the game, had their moments, and could have easily nicked an equaliser had Gianluigi Donnarumma not pulled off a world-class save or two. It wasn’t the worst result for Arteta’s men, but they now face an uphill climb in Paris.
To make matters more intriguing, both sides slipped up in their domestic leagues over the weekend. PSG were stunned 2-1 by Strasbourg, while Arsenal fell to a frustrating 2-1 defeat at home to Bournemouth. Still, both managers rotated heavily with this midweek blockbuster in mind—so expect their strongest lineups when the lights shine brightest.
Head-to-Head & Recent Form
Before Dembele’s heroics in the first leg, Arsenal had PSG’s number. The Gunners were unbeaten in four previous meetings, including a 2-0 win in the group stage this season. That alone should give Arsenal fans a glimmer of hope—especially considering the Londoners have shown they can frustrate PSG’s stars when organised.
That said, form favours the French champions. Despite only two wins in their last six games across competitions, PSG have made the Parc a fortress in Europe this season. Their ability to start fast and feed off the home crowd’s energy could make the difference.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are wobbling slightly. Three games without a win, and the creativity has dried up at the wrong time. But this is the Champions League—a platform for heroes. The Gunners will need every ounce of composure, resilience, and clinical edge to pull off what would be a famous European comeback.
Tactics & Key Battles
Here’s where the chess match begins. PSG love to stretch play with width and raw pace. Bradley Barcola is expected to replace the injured Dembele, and he’ll be a major threat down the flanks. With Kvaratskhelia floating and Hakimi bombing forward, Arsenal’s full-backs will need to be laser-focused.
In midfield, Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and Neves will look to control tempo and exploit Arsenal’s defensive transitions. But here’s the good news for Gooners: Thomas Partey is back. The Ghanaian’s presence offers a massive boost. His ability to shield the defence and free up Declan Rice to push forward could tilt the balance in Arsenal’s favour.
It’s also a big night for Martin Ødegaard, who needs to impose himself and thread passes that split PSG’s backline. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli cutting inside and sniffing for chances, the Gunners do have the firepower to cause damage.
Players to Watch
Bradley Barcola (PSG) – He scored against Strasbourg at the weekend and will be full of confidence. His movement and finishing will test Arsenal’s backline.
Declan Rice (Arsenal) – Scored in the Premier League on the weekend and thrives in big games. If he drives forward, he could disrupt PSG’s rhythm.
Donnarumma (PSG) – His saves in the first leg were huge. Arsenal will test him again, and he’ll need to be just as sharp.
Saka & Martinelli (Arsenal) – This is their time to shine. If they get isolated against PSG’s fullbacks, they’ll be licking their lips.
This tie is far from over. Yes, PSG have the upper hand. Yes, they’re at home. But Arsenal have a history of bouncing back and love playing with their backs against the wall. If they can survive the early onslaught and find a goal before half-time, this tie flips on its head.
Expect a fast start, a few nervy moments, and at least one stunner. But ultimately, PSG’s experience and quality at home might just edge it.
