Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are set to clash in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League on October 1, with the match scheduled to kick off at 20:00 local time. This encounter marks their first competitive meeting in six years, with Arsenal having secured a resounding 5-1 victory in a friendly back in 2018.
Arsenal enter the game in strong form, riding high on a 10-match unbeaten streak, including recent victories over Leicester City and Bolton. However, despite their success, concerns linger over the Gunners' defensive solidity. Mikel Arteta’s side has conceded goals in their last three matches, a vulnerability they cannot afford to carry into this high-profile European clash.
PSG, on the other hand, are also enjoying an impressive unbeaten run of 12 matches, with their latest victory coming in a 3-1 triumph over Rennes in Ligue 1. Despite their attacking prowess, defensive frailties have haunted the Parisians on the road, with goals conceded in each of their last six away matches. Luis Enrique’s men will need to tighten up at the back if they are to stop Arsenal’s in-form attack.
The two sides have met three times since 2016, with Arsenal holding a slight edge. The Gunners have won once, while the other two encounters ended in draws. Over those three matches, Arsenal have outscored PSG 8-4, reflecting their stronger recent head-to-head record.
As the two European heavyweights prepare for battle, both will be eager to extend their respective unbeaten runs and take a crucial step toward qualification from the group stage. However, with defensive issues looming large for both teams, this could be a high-scoring affair under the lights in London.