The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals of the 2024–25 season have delivered high drama, breathtaking goals, and the fall of some European giants. As we head into the semi-finals, four teams remain Arsenal, PSG, Barcelona, and Inter Milan all with sights set on glory in Munich. Here are ten key takeaways from the quarter-final stage as we look forward to the final stretch of Europe’s premier club competition.

1. Arsenal Make a Statement at the Bernabéu

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal made history with a commanding 5-1 aggregate win over 15-time champions Real Madrid. The Gunners showed defensive resilience and clinical finishing, with standout goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, marking a power shift in European football.

2. PSG Survive Aston Villa Scare

Paris Saint-Germain showed grit, advancing past Aston Villa with a 5-4 aggregate despite losing the second leg 2-1. Key performances from Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma helped them reach their fourth semi-final in six years.

3. Inter Milan Show Tactical Maturity

Inter’s 4-3 aggregate win over Bayern Munich highlighted their discipline and balance. Goals from Lautaro Martínez and Benjamin Pavard, combined with Yann Sommer’s composure in goal, ensured they edged past a heavily-depleted Bayern side.

4. Barcelona Outgun Dortmund in Aggregate Thriller

Despite a second-leg scare from Borussia Dortmund led by Serhou Guirassy’s hat-trick Barcelona advanced 5-3 on aggregate. With Raphinha now on 12 goals in 12 matches, Barcelona’s firepower makes them a real threat in the semi-finals.

5. New Stars Shine Bright

The quarter-finals were a breakout stage for young talents. Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly impressed with his maturity at just 18, while Dortmund’s Guirassy set a new record for most Champions League goals in a season by an African player (13).

6. Injuries Reshape the Title Race

Injuries played a pivotal role across the quarter-finals. Bayern Munich were without key figures like Jamal Musiala, Manuel Neuer, and Alphonso Davies. Real Madrid suffered a major blow with Kylian Mbappé exiting injured in their second-leg collapse.

7. Arsenal and PSG Chase First-Ever UCL Title

Both Arsenal and PSG are desperate for European validation. Arsenal last reached the final in 2006, while PSG’s only final appearance ended in defeat to Bayern Munich in 2020. Their semi-final clash is not just a battle of teams but of ambition.

8. Barcelona Eye the Treble

Barcelona remain alive in three competitions and could secure a historic treble under Hansi Flick. Sitting atop La Liga and in the domestic cup final, their clash with Inter in the Champions League could define their season.

9. Arsenal Favored by the Supercomputer

According to Opta’s Supercomputer, Arsenal currently hold a 28.7% chance of lifting the Champions League trophy the highest among remaining teams. Their form, squad depth, and tactical sharpness make them serious contenders.

10. Set-Pieces as Game-Changers

The quarter-finals underscored the impact of dead-ball situations. Arsenal’s Declan Rice scored two stunning free-kicks against Madrid, while PSG utilized set-pieces effectively against Aston Villa. In tight matches, these moments can be decisive.

Champions League Semi-Final Fixtures:

• Arsenal vs Paris Saint-Germain
• Barcelona vs Inter Milan

As the road to the final at Allianz Arena in Munich continues, the remaining clubs will need to draw from their depth, experience, and belief. With fresh narratives unfolding, history is up for the taking in this season's UEFA Champions League.