### PSG's Ousmane Dembélé Returns Just in Time for Champions League Showdown Against Arsenal Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has received a significant boost ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal, with forward Ousmane Dembélé declared fit to play after recovering from a hamstring injury. Dembélé's return is pivotal as he has been a key player for PSG, scoring eight goals in his last nine Champions League appearances since the start of 2025, including the only goal in the first leg of this semi-final, which PSG won 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium [https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/football/2025/May/07/psg-striker-ousmane-dembélé-fit-to-face-arsenal-in-champions-league-semifinal, https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/football/psgs-ousmane-dembele-fit-to-face-arsenal-in-champions-league-semifinal-101746545294564.html]. ### Overview of the Match Context and Team Updates 1. **Match Importance**: The second leg of the semi-final is critical for both teams, with Arsenal needing to overturn a 1-0 deficit to reach their first Champions League final in 19 years [https://www.local10.com/sports/2025/05/07/arsenal-travels-to-psg-looking-to-overturn-deficit-and-reach-1st-champions-league-final-in-19-years]. 2. **Player Fitness**: Dembélé's recovery from a slight hamstring issue is a major advantage for PSG, as he is expected to start the match. Coach Luis Enrique confirmed his availability, emphasizing the importance of squad cohesion as they aim for a place in the final [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6336720/2025/05/06/ousmane-dembele-psg-team-news-arsenal-champions-league, https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/dembele-fit-arsenal-clash-psg-eye-champions-league-final-2025-05-06]. 3. **Arsenal's Strategy**: Arsenal, bolstered by the return of midfielder Thomas Partey, is determined to capitalize on any weaknesses in PSG's defense and aims to make history by reaching the final [https://www.local10.com/sports/2025/05/07/arsenal-travels-to-psg-looking-to-overturn-deficit-and-reach-1st-champions-league-final-in-19-years]. ### Key Player Statistics and Impact - **Ousmane Dembélé**: - Goals in 2025 Champions League: 8 in 9 appearances [https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/luis-enrique-ousmane-dembele-fitness-arsenal-b2745711.html]. - Total goals this season across all competitions: 33 [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6336720/2025/05/06/ousmane-dembele-psg-team-news-arsenal-champions-league]. - **Arsenal's Recent Form**: Arsenal's recent performance has been mixed, and they will need to find their best form to challenge PSG effectively [https://www.local10.com/sports/2025/05/07/arsenal-travels-to-psg-looking-to-overturn-deficit-and-reach-1st-champions-league-final-in-19-years]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for PSG and Arsenal In summary, the return of Ousmane Dembélé is a crucial development for PSG as they prepare for the second leg against Arsenal. His scoring ability and experience in high-stakes matches could be the difference-maker in this encounter. 1. **Dembélé's Impact**: His fitness enhances PSG's attacking options significantly, making them a formidable opponent [https://www.modernghana.com/sports/1398012/ucl-semifinals-psgs-ousmane-dembele-fit-for-seco.html]. 2. **Arsenal's Challenge**: Arsenal must leverage their home advantage and tactical adjustments to overcome the deficit and secure a place in the final [https://www.local10.com/sports/2025/05/07/arsenal-travels-to-psg-looking-to-overturn-deficit-and-reach-1st-champions-league-final-in-19-years]. 3. **Match Anticipation**: The match promises to be an exciting clash, with both teams having much at stake as they vie for a coveted spot in the Champions League final [https://www.newindianexpress.com/sport/football/2025/May/07/psg-striker-ousmane-dembélé-fit-to-face-arsenal-in-champions-league-semifinal].