Martinelli plays today? Where to watch Arsenal vs PSG live in the Champions League

On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, football fans across the globe will turn their attention to one of the most anticipated matches of the European season. At 4:00 PM (Brasília time), Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) face off at the Emirates Stadium in London for the first leg of the Champions League semifinal. This showdown brings together two footballing powerhouses, each driven by ambition and burdened by unique challenges. For Arsenal, playing at home offers a golden opportunity to build a lead after their stunning elimination of Real Madrid in the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, PSG, despite securing the Ligue 1 title, must overcome recent inconsistencies to challenge the Gunners. The match will be broadcast live on SBT (free-to-air), TNT Sports (cable), and the Max streaming platform, ensuring Brazilian fans can catch every moment.

Arsenal enter the clash riding a wave of confidence under manager Mikel Arteta. The team boasts an unbeaten streak of 12 matches, with six wins and six draws since their last defeat on February 22. The sold-out Emirates Stadium is expected to create an electric atmosphere, with fans eager to support their side. Conversely, PSG are under scrutiny after a surprising loss to Nice in Ligue 1. Their last four matches—two losses, one draw, and one win—highlight the urgency for a turnaround. Manager Luis Enrique is banking on the attacking flair of players like Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to spark a response.

This semifinal is not just a step toward the final but a clash of contrasting styles. Arsenal rely on tactical discipline and relentless intensity, while PSG lean on the speed and individual brilliance of their forwards. Historically, Arsenal hold the edge, remaining unbeaten against PSG in four previous encounters, with two wins and two draws. Expectations are high for an open, goal-filled match, with fierce battles in midfield and plenty of scoring opportunities for both sides.

• Home advantage: Arsenal’s passionate crowd could tilt the scales at Emirates.
• Head-to-head: PSG have yet to defeat Arsenal in official competitions.
• Tactical contrast: Arsenal’s structure meets PSG’s explosive attack.

Arsenal’s rise in the 2024/25 season

Arsenal’s journey in the 2024/25 Champions League reflects the remarkable rebuild orchestrated by Mikel Arteta. Knocking out heavyweights like Bayern Munich and Real Madrid has cemented the Gunners as serious title contenders. Their quarterfinal triumph over Real Madrid, powered by standout performances from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, marked a turning point. In the Premier League, Arsenal are also in the title race, showcasing the depth of a squad that blends youth and experience.

Arteta, drawing inspiration from his time as Pep Guardiola’s assistant, has instilled a philosophy centered on possession, high pressing, and fluid transitions. At the Emirates, Arsenal often dictate the tempo from the opening whistle, exploiting opponents’ mistakes. The defense, anchored by William Saliba, ranks among Europe’s best, while the midfield trio of Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Mikel Merino balances grit and creativity. For fans, this semifinal against PSG is a chance to dream of a return to the Champions League final, a feat Arsenal haven’t achieved since 2006.

Preparations for the match have been meticulous. Arteta has focused on dissecting PSG’s vulnerabilities, particularly their tendency to falter under pressure during build-up play. The sold-out crowd is expected to create an intimidating atmosphere, amplifying Arsenal’s intensity. Players like Saka, in scintillating form, are seen as potential game-changers against PSG’s defense. While confidence is high, there’s respect for PSG’s individual quality.

• Defensive strength: Saliba leads one of Europe’s most robust backlines.
• Arteta’s blueprint: Possession and pressing define Arsenal’s approach.
• Saka’s moment: The young star is Arsenal’s key attacking threat.

PSG face tactical and emotional hurdles

Paris Saint-Germain approach the semifinal with a mix of optimism and pressure. Their early Ligue 1 title win underscores their domestic dominance, but a recent defeat to Nice exposed cracks. The departure of Kylian Mbappé in 2024 forced a squad overhaul, with new signings like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembélé adding pace but struggling for cohesion. Defensive lapses and inconsistent finishing have raised concerns among fans and analysts.

Luis Enrique, a manager with a storied career, is still chasing his first Champions League triumph with PSG. His system, which emphasizes rapid transitions and counterattacks, hinges on players like Achraf Hakimi and Vitinha. However, recent defensive frailties could prove costly against Arsenal’s disciplined setup. This semifinal is a critical test of PSG’s ability to rise above their inconsistencies and perform on the biggest stage.

Despite the challenges, PSG’s fanbase remains hopeful. Social media buzz highlights the potential of Dembélé’s speed and Kvaratskhelia’s flair to unlock Arsenal’s defense. Enrique faces intense scrutiny, especially after past European disappointments. The match at Emirates Stadium is a chance for PSG to prove they can compete with Europe’s elite, but they’ll need to overcome a formidable opponent and their own uneven form.

Lineups and tactical approaches

Arsenal are likely to stick with their trusted 4-3-3 formation, balancing defensive solidity with attacking flair. David Raya will guard the goal, shielded by a backline of Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, and Myles Lewis-Skelly. In midfield, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Mikel Merino provide a blend of tenacity and vision. Up top, Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli form a dynamic attacking trio, tasked with breaching PSG’s defense early.

Arteta’s game plan will focus on controlling possession and exploiting gaps in PSG’s backline. High pressing, a hallmark of Arsenal’s style, aims to disrupt PSG’s build-up, particularly on the flanks. Rice will be pivotal in neutralizing Vitinha, while Odegaard will orchestrate attacks from midfield. Fans expect an aggressive start, with Arsenal aiming to score early and seize momentum.

PSG are also expected to deploy a 4-3-3, with Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, Marquinhos and William Pacho at center-back, and Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes on the flanks. The midfield trio of Fabián Ruiz, Vitinha, and João Neves offers versatility, while Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia lead the attack. Enrique will likely prioritize quick counterattacks, leveraging the speed of his wingers to catch Arsenal’s defense off guard.

• Midfield battle: Rice vs. Vitinha could dictate the game’s tempo.
• PSG’s pace: Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia pose a counterattacking threat.
• Arsenal’s defense: Saliba’s presence challenges PSG’s forwards.

How to watch the match live

Brazilian fans have multiple ways to catch the Arsenal vs. PSG clash. SBT will air the game on free-to-air TV with Portuguese narration and expert commentary, starting with a pre-game show at 3:30 PM. TNT Sports, on cable, promises comprehensive coverage, including tactical breakdowns and interviews. For streaming enthusiasts, the Max platform offers the match in high definition, accessible on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

Beyond official broadcasts, sports apps and websites will provide real-time updates, complete with detailed stats and play-by-play commentary. On social media, particularly X, the game is set to spark lively discussions, with fans sharing reactions and insights. The hashtag #ArsenalvsPSG is already trending, reflecting the global excitement.

Coverage kicks off at 3:30 PM, with debates on lineups and strategies. For fans unable to watch live, sports radio stations will offer full commentary, ensuring no one misses the action. Given the match’s significance, viewership is expected to break records, driven by the global appeal of both clubs.

• SBT: Free-to-air broadcast with Portuguese narration.
• TNT Sports: In-depth coverage on cable.
• Max: High-definition streaming for mobile devices.

Arsenal’s historical edge

Arsenal hold a clear advantage in their head-to-head record against PSG. Across four official matches, the Gunners are unbeaten, securing two wins and two draws. Their most recent encounter, in the 2024/25 Champions League group stage, saw Arsenal cruise to a 2-0 victory, with goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. This history bolsters Arsenal’s confidence but puts added pressure on PSG to rewrite the narrative.

Past meetings reveal tactical trends: Arsenal typically dominate possession, while PSG rely on counterattacks. The semifinal stage, however, raises the stakes, and PSG’s revamped squad, guided by Enrique’s experience, aims to break the deadlock. For Arsenal, preserving their unbeaten record against PSG is a psychological boost, though the intensity of a semifinal demands total focus.

The historical edge also carries mental weight. Players like Saka, who have scored against PSG before, will take the pitch with confidence, while PSG must overcome the hurdle of never beating Arsenal. The home crowd, aware of this advantage, is poised to create a daunting atmosphere for the visitors.

• Recent clash: Arsenal 2-0 PSG, October 2024.
• Unbeaten run: Arsenal have never lost to PSG.
• Mental factor: History could shape both teams’ mindset.

Broader impact on European football

The Arsenal-PSG showdown transcends the semifinal, reflecting the current landscape of European football. Arsenal embody the Premier League’s dominance, with its financially robust and tactically sophisticated teams. Their victory over Real Madrid signaled their readiness to claim the Champions League crown, a milestone for the club. PSG, meanwhile, represent the aspirations of French football, striving to carve out a larger presence among Europe’s elite.

Despite massive investments, PSG’s elusive Champions League title remains a source of frustration for fans and management. A win at Emirates would be a defining moment in their quest to shift perceptions. For Arsenal, a strong home result sets the stage for the return leg on May 7 in Paris. This clash is poised to influence the balance of power in European football, with both clubs eager to assert their dominance.

The outcome will also shape preparations for the second leg. A comfortable Arsenal win could allow strategic flexibility in Paris, while a PSG victory would put the Gunners under pressure. The match’s intensity and global viewership underscore its significance in the 2024/25 season.

Arsenal and PSG in Champions League history

Arsenal’s Champions League legacy includes a memorable run to the 2006 final, where they fell to Barcelona. The 2024/25 campaign, with victories over Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, is their strongest in nearly two decades. Arteta’s leadership and the emergence of talents like Saka have rekindled hopes of a first-ever Champions League title.

PSG’s high point came in 2020, reaching the final but losing to Bayern Munich. Subsequent early exits have fueled criticism, prompting a squad overhaul for 2024/25. The semifinal against Arsenal offers a chance to rewrite their European story and prove their mettle against top competition.

• Arsenal: 2006 finalists, lost to Barcelona.
• PSG: 2020 finalists, defeated by Bayern Munich.
• Shared goal: Both clubs chase their first Champions League title.

Expectations and analysis for today’s match

Arsenal fans are buzzing with excitement, anticipating a return to the Champions League final. The sold-out Emirates Stadium promises an unforgettable atmosphere, with supporters rallying behind Saka and the team’s defensive resilience. Analysts favor Arsenal due to their home advantage and form, but they caution against PSG’s ability to strike on the counter.

PSG supporters, though cautious after recent setbacks, remain optimistic. Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia’s pace is seen as a potential game-changer, especially against Arsenal’s high defensive line. Enrique has stressed the need for composure and exploiting spaces. Both sides are expected to create chances, making this a tightly contested affair.

Semifinal schedule

The Arsenal-PSG tie is a two-legged battle, with the return match set for May 7, 2025, at Parc des Princes in Paris. The winner will face either Bayern Munich or Manchester City in the final, scheduled for May 31, 2025, at Allianz Arena in Munich.

• First leg: Arsenal vs. PSG, April 29, 2025, Emirates Stadium, London.
• Second leg: PSG vs. Arsenal, May 7, 2025, Parc des Princes, Paris.
• Final: May 31, 2025, Allianz Arena, Munich.

Key factors in today’s clash

Several elements could sway the outcome. Arsenal’s tactical cohesion and home support are major strengths, but they must contain PSG’s lightning-fast attack. PSG, meanwhile, need to overcome their recent dip in form and stay focused. Injuries could play a role, with both teams managing players returning from fitness issues.

The referee, Slavko Vincic, is known for his strict approach to physical play, which could influence the match’s flow. Weather forecasts predict light rain in London, potentially creating a slick pitch that favors technical players like Odegaard and Vitinha.

• Crowd impact: A packed Emirates could unsettle PSG.
• Referee: Vincic’s rigidity may affect physical battles.
• Weather: Light rain could quicken the game’s pace.

Spotlight on players and managers

This semifinal is a stage for stars to shine. Bukayo Saka aims to cement his status as a global talent, while Khvicha Kvaratskhelia looks to justify PSG’s investment. The managerial duel pits Arteta, a rising star, against Enrique, a seasoned tactician with a Champions League title from his Barcelona days.

The match carries long-term implications. A deep run could boost Arsenal’s global brand and attract top talent, while PSG seek to solidify their status as a European powerhouse. The pressure is immense, particularly for PSG, given their history of European shortcomings.

Looking ahead to the return leg

The first leg’s result will shape strategies for the May 7 clash in Paris. A strong Arsenal performance at home could ease their approach, while a PSG win would shift momentum. The Parc des Princes crowd, renowned for its fervor, will be a factor in the second leg.

Arteta and Enrique are already planning for both scenarios. Arsenal will likely maintain their aggressive style, while PSG may tweak their midfield or lean harder on counterattacks. The balance between attack and defense will be critical across the tie.

• Return leg: PSG vs. Arsenal, May 7, 2025, Parc des Princes.
• Home factor: PSG thrive in Paris during Champions League ties.
• Tactical shifts: Today’s result will influence second-leg plans.

Arsenal’s tactical evolution

Arsenal’s transformation under Arteta is a testament to strategic planning. The 2024/25 season has seen them blend youthful energy with disciplined tactics, making them a formidable force. Their ability to adapt to different opponents, from Bayern’s possession-based style to Real Madrid’s counterattacks, highlights their versatility.

The Emirates crowd has played a pivotal role, turning the stadium into a fortress. Against PSG, Arsenal will aim to replicate their high-energy starts, using players like Martinelli to stretch the opposition. The squad’s depth, with options like Trossard off the bench, gives Arteta flexibility to adjust during the match.

PSG’s attacking firepower

PSG’s attack, despite integration challenges, remains a potent weapon. Dembélé’s dribbling and Kvaratskhelia’s creativity can unlock any defense, while Barcola adds unpredictability. Enrique’s challenge is to balance this offensive talent with defensive stability, especially against Arsenal’s pressing.

The midfield, led by Vitinha, will be crucial in transitioning play. Hakimi’s overlapping runs on the right could exploit gaps in Arsenal’s left flank. If PSG can find rhythm early, their attacking trio could pose serious problems.

• Attacking trio: Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia, and Barcola bring pace and flair.
• Midfield key: Vitinha’s vision is vital for PSG’s transitions.
• Defensive concerns: PSG must tighten up to withstand Arsenal’s pressure.

Fan anticipation and global reach

The Arsenal-PSG clash has captured the imagination of football fans worldwide. In London, the Emirates is set to be a cauldron of noise, with supporters chanting for their heroes. In Paris, fans are organizing watch parties, hopeful for an upset. The match’s global broadcast ensures millions will tune in, from Europe to South America.

Social media platforms, especially X, are abuzz with predictions and debates. Arsenal fans highlight their team’s form, while PSG supporters point to their attacking potential. The game’s outcome will fuel discussions for weeks, shaping narratives heading into the return leg.

Statistical insights

Arsenal’s defensive record is a standout, conceding just five goals in their last 12 matches across all competitions. PSG, meanwhile, have scored in every game this season but have struggled defensively, conceding in three of their last four. These stats underscore the tactical battle: Arsenal’s solidity versus PSG’s attacking threat.

Expected goals (xG) metrics suggest both teams will create chances, with Arsenal slightly favored due to their home form. The midfield duel, particularly Rice’s ability to disrupt PSG’s rhythm, could be a deciding factor.

• Arsenal’s defense: Five goals conceded in 12 matches.
• PSG’s attack: Scored in every game this season.
• xG trends: Both teams likely to generate scoring opportunities.

The road to Munich

The Champions League final on May 31, 2025, at Allianz Arena is the ultimate prize. For Arsenal, lifting the trophy would cap their resurgence, while PSG see it as the culmination of years of investment. The winner of this tie faces a daunting challenge against either Bayern Munich or Manchester City, making the first leg’s result critical.

Both teams are motivated by history. Arsenal want to erase the pain of 2006, while PSG aim to move past 2020’s heartbreak. The semifinal is a defining moment in their respective journeys.