After a long wait of 16 years, Arsenal have finally reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, where they will face French giants PSG over two legs. For Arsenal fans in Goa, this is a momentous occasion—an opportunity that has been a long time coming. The excitement is palpable among the faithful.
Neroy Costa from Shiroda, a passionate Arsenal supporter, summed it up best. “It’s been a long 16-year wait to reach this stage, and the team’s hunger is clear. I’m expecting a high-intensity clash with PSG, full of tactical battles and standout moments. With the form and spirit Arsenal have shown, this could be their moment to finally break through and make history.”
For Aldrich Rodrigues, a teacher and musician from Majorda, the journey has been deeply personal. “There was once a time when Arsenal were a laughing stock, especially after those heavy defeats to Bayern. But slowly and steadily, we’ve clawed our way back to the top. Those horror-ridden nights feel like a distant memory now. This is a prodigious moment to be a proud and persistent Gooner!”
He further adds, “It all feels utterly surreal. Football brings both victories and defeats, but these boys deserve the highest accolades. No matter what the final whistle brings, our time has undeniably arrived.”
Yogesh Khandeparkar from Ponda believes Arsenal have what it takes to go all the way. “We’ve beaten PSG in previous European contests, so the odds favour us. I believe teamwork will triumph over individual brilliance. I see Arsenal making it to the final.”
The match promises to be finely balanced. Nathan Po from Corlim shared his thoughts, “This semi-final is more than just a clash between two top sides. It’s a meeting of clubs who’ve come heartbreakingly close but are still chasing their first Champions League title. PSG have already wrapped up League 1, giving them full focus on Europe. Meanwhile, Arsenal—despite being in a tough Premier League title race—are playing with belief and momentum, especially after knocking out the reigning champions. For both teams, this could be the best chance in years to lift the trophy. That hunger might just make the difference. It’s a thrilling tie to look forward to.”
The passion among fans is undeniable. Elton Fernandes, an engineer from Siolim, expressed his excitement, “Arsenal vs PSG promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Gunners are determined to outplay the French giants. I’m hoping for a memorable Arsenal victory on European soil.”
Fans haven’t forgotten the tough years either. Arthur Trinidade from Assonora shared a heartfelt message, “Come on, Gunners! This is our moment to win the Champions League. They’ve doubted us, mocked us—but every time, we’ve come back stronger. We’ve already taken down giants, and now it’s time to prove we belong at the very top. Believe in the badge. Believe in the team. Believe in each other. If we can conquer one of the best, we can beat PSG too. This is more than a match—it’s our chance to make history. Let’s bring it home. Come on, you Gunners!”
One can only hope the dreams of these passionate fans are realised.