Here’s our saga. The 5 good reasons to follow a match (with some adaptations). We’ll take a look at what’s attractive before each match, with a mix of seriousness and humor. Mind you, this is by no means an exhaustive tour of the subject. We continue here with Paris Saint-Germain’s match this Wednesday against Arsenal at the Parc des Princes in the second leg of their Champions League 2024-2025 semi-final (kick-off 9pm, CET).
5 – Dembélé on his way to the Ballon d’Or?
The Ballon d’Or is definitely not our priority, but seeing Dembélé get closer to a possible title is nothing to sneeze at either. Barcelona have some great rivals, and yesterday they were eliminated by Inter Milan (final on May 31). There are points to be scored tonight and in a possible final after the goal scored in the first leg.
This would be particularly pleasing for a player who has been so much criticized during his career and even in the first few months of the season. Especially the year after the departure of Kylian Mbappé (26-year-old striker), who was so valuable but absolutely had to leave if he was to have any hope of winning the Champions League (Real Madrid lost in the quarter-finals to Arsenal) and the Ballon d’Or. The little revenge this opinion perhaps motivates us a little to take an interest in this individual trophy.
4 – Enjoying away from criticism and drama.
The criticism of Dembélé was mentioned above, but he was far from the only target. Almost everyone got it in the first half of the season, and some even afterwards. Often without restraint. Coach Luis Enrique, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Marquinhos, Bradley Barcola, Désiré Doué, the midfielders… This PSG was doomed to failure, the coach doing anything and everything.
Finally, there’s the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France final to play for (May 24 against Reims) and this semi-final. So let’s make the most of the moment, of the general “reversal of fortune”. This PSG team has worked hard and deserves to be here. It’s a great season and a great moment.
3 – An exceptional atmosphere is expected.
The Parc des Princes knows how to be boiling hot, and it’s bound to be there tonight. It’s an extraordinary evening, with great ambition and a team that appeals to everyone. Everyone wants to see their efforts rewarded, to see this team go from strength to strength. The fans are going to be pushing, with the hope of a superb party at the end. It’s also for these evenings that we love soccer and all its emotions.
2 – The very highest level.
It’s simple, but also to be savored. It’s a Champions League semi-final, which doesn’t happen very often, and you have to enjoy it. We may or may not appreciate a team’s style, but they only arrive here with great footballing qualities. It may not be as “spectacular” as the Inter/Barça match, but it’s bound to be top-class. A must-see for all soccer fans.
1 – A place in the final.
As is often the case, there are many elements to consider, but the main thing is there: the stakes for both clubs. It’s a place in the Champions League, a moment in history, all the more so if the title is won. These are the evenings that leave a lasting impression. You have to live it to the full.
