UEFA has announced the Team of the Week after the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals. These players stood out in the opening games and set the stage for the return matches.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The UEFA Technical Observer Group selected their best eleven players from the semi-final first leg matches. Paris Saint-Germain scored a crucial 1-0 away win against Arsenal, with Ousmane Dembélé netting the decisive goal in just the fourth minute. The team features standout players from four different clubs, thanks to impressive displays in both semi-final encounters.
THE STAR PERFORMERS
The midfield selection includes PSG’s Vitinha, who dominated against Arsenal, joined by Arsenal’s Declan Rice who, despite his team’s defeat, showed remarkable quality. Inter Milan’s Nicolò Barella completes the midfield trio after another consistent European performance. In attack, Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal earned his spot with what UEFA observers described as “decision-making way beyond his years,” while PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski complete the forward line.
Lewandowski was particularly impressive, earning the Player of the Match award in Barcelona’s game with a classic number nine display that showcased his “pressing, movement, and finishing” according to the UEFA Technical Observer. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s defensive duo of Jurriën Timber and William Saliba were recognized for their solid performances despite their team’s narrow defeat.
SELECTION PROCESS
UEFA’s Technical Observer Group selects the Team of the Week, with experienced observers watching each match, supported by UEFA’s analysis unit in Nyon, Switzerland. The selection combines expert observations with detailed performance data. Inter Milan’s goalkeeper Yann Sommer was chosen for his shot-stopping abilities and composure in distribution, which helped create attacking opportunities for his team.
WHAT’S NEXT?
All eyes now turn to the crucial second leg matches where the semi-finalists will battle for a place in the Champions League final. Arsenal will travel to Paris needing to overturn a one-goal deficit, while the other return leg will determine whether Barcelona can maintain their advantage. The performances of these Team of the Week selections have given their teams valuable advantages, but everything remains at stake in what promises to be dramatic return fixtures next week.
The final is scheduled to take place later this month, with the winners of these semi-final ties set to compete for European club football’s most prestigious trophy. With such exceptional talent on display in the first legs, fans can expect even more intensity and quality as teams fight for their place in the final showdown.
