Declan Rice has delivered on the big stage before—but ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain, the midfield star believes the Gunners must produce another magic moment to keep their European dream alive.
Arsenal travel to the Parc des Princes trailing 1-0 from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, where an early goal from Ousmane Dembele stunned the hosts. Now, with the second leg set for Wednesday night, the pressure is higher than ever—and Rice says the team needs to rise to the moment.
Rice: ‘We Need a Moment of Magic’
Arsenal have not reached the UEFA Champions League final since 2006—and they’ve never overturned a European knockout tie after losing the first leg at home. But Declan Rice believes this is a team ready to rewrite history.
The Gunners head into Wednesday night’s semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain trailing 1-0 after a first-leg defeat at the Emirates. However, Rice says Arsenal’s belief is sky-high after eliminating defending champions Real Madrid in the quarter-finals—particularly after winning at the Bernabeu.
“Everyone was talking about Madrid coming back,” Rice said. “Some of their players were already looking ahead to the second leg immediately after the first game. That told us they believed something special could happen at their place—and so did we.”
Many Arsenal players were visiting the iconic Bernabeu for the first time, and despite holding a 3-0 advantage, Rice knew the pressure would be immense.
“We knew it wouldn’t be easy,” he added. “That stadium has seen magical Champions League moments before, and we had to stay calm. But we handled the pressure brilliantly and put in a top performance.”
Rice, who scored two stunning free-kicks in the first leg and earned man-of-the-match honours in both games, says Arsenal are once again prepared for the big occasion.
“I’m pretty sure you’ll see the same kind of performance from us tomorrow night. We show up for big moments, and we’re ready to do it again. These are the games where someone steps up to be a hero.”
“You’re going to need a moment of magic to win a game like this,” Rice concluded. “Hopefully, I can be that person again. But whoever it is, we’re confident someone will deliver something special.
Big Boosts for Arsenal’s Midfield
There’s more good news for Arsenal ahead of the decisive leg. Right-back Riccardo Calafiori is fit again, while influential midfielder Thomas Partey returns after suspension. Rice welcomed the return of his midfield partner with open arms.
“Playing with Thomas brings total calmness,” Rice said. “He doesn’t always get the credit he deserves, but he makes everyone around him better. We’ll need a big performance from both of us—and from everyone.”
Partey’s composure, ball progression, and defensive control could be crucial in breaking PSG’s midfield rhythm. With Rice’s energy and Partey’s poise, Arteta may have his ideal double pivot back just in time.
Arteta: ‘Let’s Do the Talking on the Pitch’
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also addressed the media, urging his side to embrace the moment rather than fear it.
“We’re one win away from being in the final,” Arteta said. “Let’s do the talking tomorrow at 9 pm. It’s about being in the right place at the right time.”
Arteta, who won the FA Cup with Arsenal in 2020, is now chasing the club’s biggest prize in nearly two decades. While he avoided bold predictions, his quiet confidence suggests belief runs deep in the Arsenal camp.
PSG Flying High but Not Untouchable
PSG enter the second leg on a 15-game unbeaten run in Ligue 1 and fresh from knocking out European giants in earlier rounds. But their performance in North London showed they are not invincible. After a dominant opening 25 minutes, they faded, and Arsenal had the better of the second half.
The French side’s star power—featuring the likes of Dembele, Kolo Muani, and Donnarumma—is undeniable. But Arsenal’s youth, tactical discipline, and resilience have carried them this far, and Rice believes those qualities can deliver again.
“This is going to be one of the biggest nights in the club’s history,” Rice said. “We know what’s at stake. But we’re positive. We believe.”
Wednesday’s semi-final decider in Paris #UCL pic.twitter.com/XZAOWhEZpE
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 7, 2025
A Night for Heroes
Wednesday’s clash is set to be a defining chapter in Arsenal’s modern history. Can Rice deliver another unforgettable moment? Will Partey’s return stabilize the midfield? Will Arteta’s tactical plan outwit PSG in their own backyard?
With the lights shining bright at Parc des Princes, Arsenal are one special performance away from reaching the final in Munich.
Kick-off is at 9:00 pm local time.
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