Arsenal started strongly and could have been several goals in front before a Fabian Ruiz strike mid-way through the half put PSG on course to reach the Champions League final.
The Gunners will require something special in the second half if they are to turn the tie around and progress to face Inter Milan in Munich at the end of May.
Only two teams – Ajax and Tottenham – have ever reached the Champions League final following a home defeat in the first leg.
And Arsenal, following the 1-0 loss at the Emirates last week, thought they might be about to add their names to that exclusive list when Gianluigi Donnarumma was called into action twice inside the first 10 minutes in Paris.
But the towering Italian was in inspired form early on, first from Gabriel Martinelli with his knee and then sublimely from Martin Odegaard when the ball looked destined for the bottom corner.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia then rattled the post for PSG before Arsenal escaped punishment when Desire Doue pounced on William Saliba’s loose pass but the teenager’s shot lacked the necessary power.
WHAT. A. STRIKE. 🚀
Fabian Ruiz extends PSG’s aggregate lead over Arsenal to 2-0 with unbelievable power and technique 💥
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/HwAy0GspYS
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 7, 2025
It proved to be an ill omen for Gunners fans. Minutes later, Thomas Partey’s clearing header found its way to Ruiz. The Spain international took a touch before unleashing a fierce drive that gave David Raya no chance.
It was a suckerpunch to the heart of hopeful Arsenal fans and a goal that might well have ensured PSG’s progression to the final.
