UEFA Champions League Semi-Finals Preview: Arsenal vs. PSG and Barcelona vs. Inter Milan

In an exhilarating quarterfinal round of the UEFA Champions League, notable outcomes included Arsenal advancing past Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain fending off Aston Villa’s spirited comeback, Inter Milan eliminating Bayern Munich, and Barcelona facing elimination with a second-leg loss to Borussia Dortmund.

As we await the semi-finals, analysts Mark Ogden, James Olley, Rob Dawson, Alex Kirkland, Julien Lawrence, and Sam Marsden preview the upcoming matchups and share their predictions.

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Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain

Match Dates: First Leg – April 29th | Second Leg – May 7th

Expert Predictions

Mark Ogden: This matchup poses significant challenges for Arsenal, especially with Thomas Partey’s suspension affecting their midfield strategy. While PSG boasts one of the strongest offenses in the tournament, Arsenal’s defensive organization might balance the scales. However, given PSG’s recent form, I predict they will advance with a narrow aggregate victory of 3-2.

James Olley: Arsenal’s confidence is buoyed by their previous triumph over PSG in the group stages and their impressive quarterfinal performance. Despite this, PSG’s midfield strength, particularly in light of Partey’s absence, may be too much for Arsenal to handle. My expectation is for PSG to advance with a final score of 2-1.

Rob Dawson: Arsenal’s impressive run has them believing in an upset, but PSG’s recent momentum makes them a formidable opponent. Arsenal lacks a reliable striker and has concerns in defense. I see a high-scoring match where PSG sneaks through with an aggregate of 4-3.

Julien Lawrence: This contest highlights two well-rounded teams and the atmosphere tilts slightly in favor of PSG due to the second leg at home. Though both squads can improve, PSG’s attacking prowess could give them the edge. My prediction is they will emerge victorious with a total of 5-3.

Sam Marsden: PSG’s dynamic attack is balanced by their organized midfield, which sets them apart from Real Madrid. Arsenal must perform exceptionally, particularly from star player Bukayo Saka. I believe Arsenal will edge through this semi-final with an aggregate win of 2-1.

Alex Kirkland: Arsenal’s calmness in high-pressure situations was evident against Madrid, making them capable of handling PSG’s attacking threats as long as their defense holds steady. Although PSG is strong, I believe Arsenal will progress with an aggregate score of 3-1.

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Barcelona vs. Inter Milan

Match Dates: First Leg – April 30th | Second Leg – May 6th

Expert Predictions

Sam Marsden: Barcelona’s performance against Inter may be challenging, especially with the timing of their Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid. If they can recover physically and maintain form, they could prevail, but the game could easily go either way. My final prediction is a draw in the aggregate, with Barcelona moving on based on penalties 3-3.

Mark Ogden: Barcelona has impressed this season with a significant number of goals, but Inter boasts an incredibly sturdy defense that has been hard to breach. Given their strong track record in critical matches, I am inclined to forecast an Inter victory by 2-1.

James Olley: While Barcelona’s talent is undeniable, Inter’s robust defense could stymie their attacking efforts. Despite potential fatigue from previous matches, if Barcelona can assert early dominance at home, I expect them to advance with an aggregate score of 3-1.

Rob Dawson: Resilience will be key in this fixture, and Inter’s solid defensive organization may give them the upper hand. If they can secure a favorable result in the first leg, they may very well progress. I predict that Inter will advance with a total of 3-2.

Julien Lawrence: The matchup exemplifies contrasting tactics: an attacking powerhouse against a rigid defensive unit. History suggests that attacking teams often succeed, and taking into account Barcelona’s necessity to improve from their last match, I predict they will advance with a score of 3-2.

Alex Kirkland: This remains a fascinating clash of styles. Barcelona’s attacking players must perform at peak levels against a defensive side like Inter. With key players driving their midfield, I believe Barcelona will triumph with an aggregate of 3-2.

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