Ousmane Dembele played his part with a brilliant showing. He netted the winning goal in their FA Cup final upset victory against Arsenal. Just three minutes later, Dembele sent an “incredible ‘sweeping shot’” past the keeper. It bounced off the inside of the post and straight through the net. The fifth-minute goal from the home side really set the tone for the match. It wound up resulting in a paltry 1-0 win for PSG at the Emirates Stadium in London.
Dembele’s goal was expertly assisted by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who provided a timely pass that allowed the striker to capitalize on Arsenal’s defense. Dembele’s first-time volley was an example of his predatory finishing. It equally highlighted his accommodating play as an attacking menace all game long. His incisive performance gave Arsenal’s much-maligned backline plenty to think about, making them revert to a more conservative tactic in the opening stages of the game.
With this target, Dembele got to realise his most full potential, amassing eight goals in the current season’s Champions League competition. His performances have been key for Paris Saint-Germain. He has been instrumental, scoring a goal or assisting in 11 of their 15 goals scored in the tournament. In doing so, he equalled the club record that Kylian Mbappe previously owned. This accomplishment only goes to enhance his reputation as arguably the team’s most important player.
The win provided Paris Saint-Germain a hugely important advantage. They take this now 3 goal aggregate second leg back to the French capital for the second leg of the semifinal. With the close victory, PSG is in a powerful position in their search for continental glory. The team’s defensive resilience, paired with Dembele’s offensive prowess, will be key as they prepare for the return match.
