Boost for Arsenal as chief tormentor Ousmane Dembele suffers injury after matching Kylian Mbappe record in PSG's Champions League win at Emirates Stadium

The France international found the net just minutes after kick-off, delivering a decisive strike that gave PSG a narrow 1-0 advantage heading into the second leg of their semi-final tie. However, he later limped off with what appeared to be a hamstring problem, sparking concerns about his availability for the crucial return fixture in Paris.

With 20 minutes remaining on the clock, Dembele was forced to stop play and sit down near the PSG technical area. He appeared to be in discomfort as he held his hamstring, signalling to the bench for assistance. The forward was swiftly substituted, with Bradley Barcola taking his place. The sight of Dembele hobbling off raised alarms for the fans, particularly given how integral he has been to PSG’s success this season across multiple competitions.

Following the match, PSG manager Luis Enrique addressed Dembele's situation and said: "We're going to try to get Dembele back on the pitch. But we're a real team. If Ousmane can play, that's better. But if he doesn't, we'll still be a real team. We've been saying that since the start of the season. He'll undergo tests tomorrow. It's not serious, it's something very minor, but he's probably a doubt for the second leg."

Dembele himself attempted to ease fears following the match. Speaking to L'Équipe, the 26-year-old said: "I felt a little something, but it's OK."

Dembele’s goal in the fourth minute didn’t just put PSG ahead - it also earned him a slice of club history. His eighth goal of the tournament brought his total goal contributions to 11, matching Kylian Mbappé’s record for most goal involvements in a single Champions League campaign for the club.

Dembele’s injury comes at a critical juncture in what could be a historic campaign for the French champions. PSG have already secured the Ligue 1 title and are set to contest the French Cup final. With Champions League glory now firmly in their sights, they are on course for a treble. With only a week to go before the decisive clash with Arsenal at the Parc des Princes, PSG’s medical team will be racing against time to ensure Dembele’s fit enough to contribute again.