Arsenal faced a tough challenge in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals, losing 1-0 to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the Emirates Stadium. Despite creating opportunities, the Gunners struggled to convert chances into goals, leaving them with work to do in the return leg in Paris. Here are the key lessons learned from this match.

1. Absence of Thomas Partey Felt Deeply

The biggest tactical challenge for Arsenal's manager Mikel Arteta was adjusting his lineup in the absence of suspended midfielder Thomas Partey. Partey has been instrumental in Arsenal's midfield, and his suspension forced Arteta to shuffle his squad. Declan Rice was pushed into a deeper role, while Mikel Merino was moved from a central striker position back into midfield. This alteration disrupted the team's fluidity and defensive solidity, particularly in dealing with PSG's Ousmane Dembele, who scored the opening goal in the fourth minute.

2. Kvaratskhelia's Impact on the Game

Arsenal had previously defeated PSG in the group stage when the French side was missing key player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. However, his presence was felt this time, as he assisted Dembele’s goal by making a penetrating run into the box. Kvaratskhelia’s pace and skill troubled Arsenal’s defense, particularly Jurrien Timber, who had a difficult first half. Although Timber improved in the second half as Arsenal gained more possession, Kvaratskhelia’s impact was significant in the match's outcome.

3. Control and Possession Issues

Arsenal struggled to maintain control throughout the match, especially in the first half where PSG dominated possession. This was a concern that midfielder Declan Rice highlighted in a pre-match huddle, stating, "If we don't have the ball, we die." Arsenal's inability to effectively manage the game allowed PSG to dictate the pace and capitalize on their chances. Arteta acknowledged the difficulty of controlling a team of PSG's caliber for the full 90 minutes, emphasizing the need for improvement in their game management.

4. Small Margins Make a Big Difference

Arteta noted that the match came down to "small margins," with PSG demonstrating greater efficiency in front of goal. Despite Arsenal creating chances, they were unable to capitalize, ultimately falling short. Both teams had opportunities to score, but PSG's early goal proved decisive. The Gunners will need to be more clinical in the second leg if they are to overturn this deficit and advance to the final.

5. Looking Ahead to the Second Leg

Despite the loss, Arteta remains optimistic, stating that Arsenal is "more than capable" of winning in Paris. The team will need to approach the next match with the same intensity they displayed in the previous rounds of the tournament. The experience gained from this match could be pivotal as they aim to overcome the one-goal disadvantage and secure a place in the Champions League final.

As Arsenal prepares for the return leg, they will need to address their tactical adjustments, regain their midfield strength, and ensure that they convert their chances into goals to keep their Champions League dreams alive.