This is only Arsenal’s second appearance in a Champions League final. In 2006, we lost to Barcelona 2-1. Arsenal went down to 10 men in the 18th minute when goalkeeper Jens Lehmann was sent off for a foul on Samuel Eto’o. Despite the disadvantage, Sol Campbell gave Arsenal the lead in the 37th minute. Barcelona mounted a late rally with goals from Samuel Eto’o (76′) and substitute Juliano Belletti (81′).
Although PSG had only won Ligue1 twice before 2012, they have won 12 of the last 14 seasons. Their turnaround coincides with the purchase of the team by Qatari Sports Investments. Like Manchester City, their oil-based owners also own their main sponsor.
Crystal Palace won the UEFA Conference League last week, and Aston Villa won Europa League last weekend. A win by Arsenal today would be an English sweep of European club competitions.
