Arsenal – Paris Saint-Germain: The Parisians Play About With Arteta’s Automaton (0-1)

The top teams seek the sweet spot between talent and teamwork. The peak of the process for Arsenal has brought Mikel Arteta's camp to the brink of the Champions League final, but this showdown set the stage for a Parisian production to depict the balance so many clubs crave.

Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.

Two of the biggest European outfits to never win a Champions League met in this semi-final. Would either club come one step closer to rewriting the history books by the midway mark of this contest?

Arsenal are reeling at the pain of Premier League failure. At best, they will end the season in second spot for the third year in a row but could not capitalize on Manchester City’s collapse as Liverpool will lift the trophy next month. They have drawn too many matches, dropping 18 points in stalemates from winning positions. But even if it papers over the cracks, the Champions League campaign has brought memories to savor: after beating Real Madrid at home and away, is there more joy in store?

On the other hand, PSG aim to put the final touches on a year that has opened the door to a bountiful future. A fourth Ligue 1 title in a row . . .