Jakub Kiwior was named in the starting lineup for Arsenal's UEFA Champions League semifinal first leg match against Paris Saint-Germain in London. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta selected the Poland international defender for the match.
The decision places Jakub Kiwior in the center of defense alongside William Saliba. Kiwior's inclusion follows a period of performance, including matches against Real Madrid in the previous Champions League round.
Reports indicated the player was expected to retain his place after his showing in the quarterfinal fixtures. Arsenal advanced past Real Madrid to reach this stage of the competition.
The team has remained undefeated in matches where Kiwior has started recently. This record factored into the lineup selection for the PSG match.
The confirmed Arsenal starting lineup includes Raya, Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly, Rice, Merino, Odegaard, Saka, Trossard, and Martinelli. The PSG team features Donnarumma, Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes, Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz, Doue, Dembele, and Kvaratskhelia.
Early in the match, PSG took a 1-0 lead. Ousmane Dembele scored for the French side. A pass to Kwacarccheli on the edge of the box was returned to Dembele, who finished the chance.
This match represents the first of two legs to determine which club will reach the Champions League final. The return leg is scheduled for next week.
The game kicked off at 9 PM local time in London.
