Declan Rice says Arsenal will need “magic moments” and “big balls” to stage a famous European comeback on Wednesday night – but warned Paris Saint-Germain(PSG): “If we’re at our best, there’s no stopping us.” The Gunners are in Paris seeking to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit and reach only the second Champions League final in their history.
Arsenal have never won a European tie having lost the first leg at home and will need a special performance at Parc des Princes against a PSG side who have been arguably the continent’s best team since the turn of the year. The visitors were particularly dominant in the first half-hour of the first leg in north London, but while Rice admitted his side were “spooked” by Ousmane Dembele’s early goal, the midfielder says Arsenal can take heart from the way they grew into the game.
“Once we worked out how we could beat them, obviously we missed a few chances, but in terms of how we were driving with the ball, giving our wingers one-vs-one opportunities, chances started to open up,” Rice said. “I think tomorrow night we need to do the same. We need to have big balls and we need to go out there on the biggest stage and show that we’re ready to play at this level.”
Rice’s comments highlight the challenge that Arsenal faces in the second leg. PSG has been in excellent form, and the Gunners will need to produce a top-notch performance to overcome the deficit. However, Rice is confident that his team can rise to the occasion if they play to their strengths.
The midfielder’s warning to PSG is clear: if Arsenal is at its best, there’s no stopping them. This suggests that Rice believes his team has the talent and ability to overcome the French side, but it will require a strong team effort.
As Arsenal prepares to take on PSG, the team will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in the French side’s defense. They will need to be clinical in their finishing and make the most of any opportunities that come their way.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter between two top-notch teams. PSG will be looking to see off the threat of Arsenal and book their place in the Champions League final. In contrast, Arsenal will be aiming to pull off a stunning comeback and reach the final for only the second time in their history.
With both teams possessing talented players, the match is expected to be a thrilling affair. Rice’s comments have set the tone for the match, and it will be interesting to see how both teams approach the game.
In the end, it will come down to which team can execute their game plan better. PSG will be looking to use their experience and quality to outmuscle Arsenal, while the Gunners will be relying on their youthful energy and determination to pull off a remarkable comeback.