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Arsene Wenger identifies ‘advantage’ Arsenal have over PSG ahead of second leg

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Arsène Wenger believes Arsenal hold a crucial psychological edge over Paris Saint-Germain heading into the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final.

Speaking ahead of the pivotal clash, the former Arsenal manager highlighted the Gunners’ clarity of purpose compared to the internal conflict PSG may face regarding their tactical approach.

In the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Ousmane Dembélé stunned the home crowd with an early fourth-minute goal, which ultimately proved decisive in PSG’s narrow 1-0 win.

Although the French side was dominant for large spells, Arsenal had opportunities to equalize but were denied twice by Gianluigi Donnarumma, who made key saves against Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

Despite trailing in the tie, Wenger suggested that Arsenal’s situation is simpler: they know they must attack and win. For PSG, the dilemma is more complex. With a one-goal lead, the question becomes whether to protect the advantage or continue playing offensively—an approach more aligned with their footballing DNA.

Wenger emphasized that playing defensively could cause dissonance within the squad, as not every player might buy into a passive strategy.

Luis Enrique, therefore, must be precise and convincing in his message to ensure full alignment ahead of the second leg.

Wenger also touched on Dembélé’s absence in the earlier group stage meeting, when PSG lost 2-0 to Arsenal. That absence, a result of disciplinary measures from Enrique after the forward missed a team meeting and arrived late, ultimately had long-term benefits.

According to Wenger, Enrique’s bold decision to bench Dembélé that day transformed the player, turning him into a more focused and productive asset. Since then, Dembélé has been in fine form, underlined by his decisive contribution in the semi-final opener.

Midfield control has also shifted in PSG’s favor thanks to the emergence of Vitinha, who Wenger says has brought much-needed balance and possession stability.

Alongside Joao Neves and Fabian Ruiz, the midfield now operates with a distinctly Spanish style of play that suits Enrique’s preference for ball retention.

In wide areas, full-backs Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi have been standouts throughout the competition, offering width and support at both ends of the pitch.

However, PSG’s preparation for the second leg is clouded by fitness concerns surrounding Dembélé. After scoring the winning goal in London, the French international reported tightness in his right hamstring and did not feature in PSG’s recent Ligue 1 loss to Strasbourg.

According to Stephen Smith, CEO of Kitman Labs, even a grade 1 hamstring injury would typically sideline a player for at least two weeks. He warned that starting Dembélé would be a high-risk move, especially considering his recent form and the likelihood of exacerbating the injury.

As Arsenal aim to snap their three-match winless streak, their task in Paris is clear. For PSG, with a lead to defend and a spot in the final at stake, their biggest challenge may be internal—finding the right mindset and tactical balance without compromising their identity.

With the stage set for a dramatic conclusion, all eyes turn to Paris for what promises to be an intense and high-stakes encounter.

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here’s why

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here's why

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken action against the Israel Football Association (IFA) after finding breaches of its rules relating to offensive conduct, fair play, and incidents involving discrimination and racist behavior.

As part of the ruling, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000 (around €165,000), with conditions attached. The federation is required to roll out preventive measures, including displaying a clear anti-discrimination message at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. The message, which promotes unity and rejects discrimination, must appear alongside the federation’s emblem, with its design, size, and placement submitted to FIFA for approval at least 15 days before each fixture.

Beyond matchday requirements, the IFA must also take longer-term action. Within 60 days, it is expected to allocate one-third of the fine toward a detailed anti-discrimination initiative. This program is set to include structural improvements, defined protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official platforms throughout an entire season, all subject to FIFA’s approval. The remaining portion of the fine must be settled within 30 days. FIFA has also issued a formal warning regarding future conduct, with the option for the IFA to appeal the decision.

In relation to a separate complaint raised by the Palestinian Football Association concerning teams based in disputed territories, FIFA chose not to impose any measures. The governing body pointed to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the legal status of the West Bank under international law, but emphasized its willingness to encourage dialogue and mediation between both sides.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated the organization’s stance on the role of football during periods of political tension, stressing that while the sport cannot solve global conflicts, it can still play a part in bringing people together and fostering understanding through competitions like the World Cup.

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage (VIDEO)

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage

The Minas Gerais state championship final between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro ended in chaos on Sunday, with a massive on-field brawl. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory, but the match will be remembered for the violent fallout.

Reports from Brazilian media indicate that the referee issued an additional 23 red cards following the melee.

The incident that sparked the conflict occurred in the 97th minute inside Atletico’s penalty area after a collision between Christian of Cruzeiro and home goalkeeper Everson. Everson reacted aggressively, first pushing Christian and then pinning him to the ground with both knees.

Close-range footage of the altercation later surfaced online, showing the intensity of the clash and adding fuel to an already controversial derby.

This extraordinary sequence will likely result in disciplinary action from the league and raises questions about player conduct in high-stakes matches.

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

Former Brighton & Hove Albion FC boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly “keen” on becoming the next manager of Manchester United FC.

The 46-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement last month. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a summer move for the Italian as they search for a permanent head coach.

According to reports from The Telegraph, De Zerbi would favour the Old Trafford role if given the choice.

His potential appointment could be a setback for interim United boss Michael Carrick, who has largely impressed since taking charge in January.

Carrick suffered his first defeat on Wednesday as United lost to Newcastle United FC, with goals from Anthony Gordon and William Osula sealing the result.

Despite that setback, several United players are believed to support Carrick being given the role permanently. Senior figures such as Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are reportedly impressed by his tactical ideas and deep understanding of the game.

United’s hierarchy have yet to decide whether to stick with the former England international or appoint a new manager. Other names linked with the role include Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martínez.

De Zerbi has also been mentioned as a potential candidate at Tottenham. Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.

The club dismissed former head coach Thomas Frank last month and appointed Igor Tudor as interim manager.

Tudor has yet to register a win, but after a recent defeat to Crystal Palace FC he insisted the team is still moving in the right direction.

“Unfortunately this is the moment we pay for everything. One red card changes everything,” Tudor said.

“Maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than before. I saw something. I need to choose the right players because the boat is going in the direction that I want it to go.

“When the injured players return, I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come. It’s not easy to accept where we are now, but it is how it is.”

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