Arsenal Faces Challenges After UEFA Rule Change in Semifinal Match

London, England – Arsenal FC is set to face a formidable challenge in the return leg of their Champions League semifinal against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on May 13, 2025, after losing the first leg 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium. Ousmane Dembélé scored the decisive goal on Tuesday evening, putting Arsenal in a tough spot for the upcoming match in Paris.

The defeat could have been more severe, as PSG’s Bradley Barcola and Gonçalo Ramos missed late chances to extend their lead. The winner of the tie will face either Barcelona or Inter Milan, who played to an exciting 3-3 draw in the first leg at Camp Nou.

A key point of contention among fans and pundits is the UEFA’s scrapping of the away goals rule in 2021, which previously gave teams an advantage for scoring away from home. Arsenal legend Thierry Henry voiced his concern about this change on CBS Sports, stating, “I know it’s been like that for a very long time, but how can you score three goals away from home and have no advantage?” He expressed that the old away goals rule would have benefited Arsenal significantly in their situation.

Should Arsenal manage to win by a single goal at the Parc des Princes, the tie will move into extra time and potentially penalties, complicating their path to the final. Head coach Mikel Arteta now faces pressure not just in the Champions League but also as they aim for a strong finish in the Premier League.

In addition to their upcoming match, Arsenal is dealing with several key player injuries. Gabriel Magalhães, Gabriel Jesus, and Takehiro Tomiyasu are sidelined for the season, while Kai Havertz‘s return remains uncertain. Arteta remains hopeful that Havertz, who has been recovering from injury, might play before the season ends.

As the Gunners prepare for their critical match against PSG, they face a crucial period, not just in terms of player fitness but also in their performance on the pitch. Arsenal fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome of both the Champions League and their domestic battles as they strive for silverware this season.