By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Paris Saint-Germain defeated Bayern Munich 5-4 on Tuesday night at Parc des Princes in Paris, France, in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final, as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele inspired a dramatic win in a match packed with goals and momentum swings.
Fast Start as Bayern Strike First
Bayern Munich started strongly and pressed high from kickoff. Their approach paid off in the 17th minute.
Dayot Upamecano was fouled, and Harry Kane converted the resulting penalty calmly. The goal marked his 54th of the season.
However, PSG responded quickly. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia showcased his brilliance by cutting inside and finishing into the far corner.
Goals Flow in Chaotic First Half
The game quickly turned into an attacking spectacle. João Neves headed PSG into the lead in the 33rd minute.
Soon after, Michael Olise drove forward and smashed in Bayern’s equaliser, making it 2-2.
Just before halftime, PSG won a penalty after Alphonso Davies handled a cross. After a VAR review, Ousmane Dembele stepped up and scored, giving PSG a 3-2 lead at the break.
PSG Take Control After Restart
PSG carried their momentum into the second half. Achraf Hakimi delivered a precise assist, which Kvaratskhelia converted for 4-2.
Moments later, Dembele struck again with a low shot that beat Manuel Neuer at the near post. PSG now led 5-2, leaving Bayern stunned.
Bayern Fight Back Late
Despite the setback, Bayern refused to give up. Dayot Upamecano headed in Joshua Kimmich’s free-kick to reduce the deficit.
Then, Luis Diaz produced a brilliant solo effort. He dribbled past Marquinhos and finished calmly to make it 5-4.
PSG nearly extended their lead, but Senny Mayulu’s late effort hit the crossbar.
Tie Remains Wide Open
The result gives PSG a slim advantage heading into the second leg at Allianz Arena.
Luis Enrique’s side aims to defend their Champions League title. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich hopes to reach their first final since 2020.
Both teams showed attacking quality, making the return leg highly anticipated.
Match Highlights
- Kvaratskhelia and Dembele scored twice each
- Harry Kane scored his 54th goal of the season
- PSG led 5-2 before Bayern’s late comeback
- The match became the highest-scoring semi-final in Champions League history
