Declan Rice insists the team must summon “big balls” and standout moments when they face PSG in Champions League semifinal second leg action on Wednesday
With the tie finely poised, Arsenal face PSG in Paris on Wednesday night, knowing they must overcome a tough first-leg result. Ousmane Dembele’s early strike at the Emirates gives the Parisians the edge, but Rice believes his side has the belief and ability to rise to the occasion.
“We need to have big balls, simple as that,” the England midfielder said. “It’s a semi-final, 90 minutes from a final, and that’s everything you need to know. We have to go out there, show we’re ready, and play at this level. We know what we can achieve.”
The North London club is aiming to reach its first Champions League final since 2006. Despite the first-leg setback, Rice is confident that Arteta’s tactical adjustments can turn the tide.
“We struggled in the early stages in the first leg, they move so well between the lines. But once we figured out how to beat them, the chances started coming,” Rice explained. “We missed a few, but we were able to get our winners in one-on-one situations. We know what we need to do to get the result tomorrow.”
Rice has been instrumental in Arsenal’s Champions League journey, with crucial performances including a brace of free-kicks in the quarter-final victory over Real Madrid. The midfielder’s confidence is matched by his manager’s belief in the team’s potential.
“Mikel always talks about moments of magic – someone stepping up in high-pressure situations,” Rice continued. “I did it against Madrid, but tomorrow could be someone else’s turn. We’ll need a moment of magic as a team to get through this.”
The Champions League is Arsenal’s final chance for silverware this season after Liverpool secured the Premier League title, and despite recent domestic setbacks – such as a loss to Bournemouth – Arteta is optimistic about his side’s prospects in Europe.
“We’re just one win away from the final in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, against a great team,” Arteta said. “This is our moment to make history, and we’re focused on the opportunity to prove we belong in the final.”
Arsenal’s focus is now locked solely on PSG, with Arteta determined to ensure his side delivers its best performance yet. “Let’s stop talking and do it on the pitch tomorrow,” he added. “The best version of ourselves will win this game.”
