Paris Saint-Germain hold a slender advantage over Bayern Munich after a thrilling 5–4 victory in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final, in a match packed with goals, momentum swings and defensive frailties.
The encounter at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday night saw both sides exchange blows in a high-tempo contest, with the French champions ultimately edging ahead ahead of the return leg in Germany on 6 May.
Bayern Munich were the first to strike, taking the lead in the 17th minute when Harry Kane converted from the penalty spot. However, their advantage was short-lived as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia drew Paris Saint-Germain level just seven minutes later.
The hosts then seized control of the game, going in front through João Neves before Bayern responded again. Michael Olise restored parity at 2–2, ensuring the first half remained finely balanced.
Just before the interval, PSG regained the lead when Ousmane Dembélé converted a penalty. The home side carried that momentum into the second half, with Kvaratskhelia scoring his second goal of the night early after the restart to make it 4–2.
Moroccan full-back Achraf Hakimi played a decisive role in that goal, providing the assist and underlining his influence throughout the match. His performance at right-back combined defensive work with attacking intent, proving crucial in a game where both sides struggled to contain each other.
Dembélé extended PSG’s lead further to 5–2, seemingly putting the tie beyond Bayern’s reach. Yet the German side mounted a spirited comeback. Dayot Upamecano and Luis Díaz both found the net in quick succession, reducing the deficit to a single goal and setting up a tense closing period.
Despite Bayern’s late surge, PSG held on to secure a narrow victory, leaving the semi-final finely poised ahead of the second leg in Munich.
Hakimi’s contribution stood out on a night dominated by attacking quality. His assist for PSG’s fourth goal was a key moment, and his energy on the flank added to the home side’s offensive threat. However, the match also exposed defensive vulnerabilities on both sides, with nine goals highlighting lapses at the back.
PSG’s attacking depth, spearheaded by Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé, ultimately proved the difference, while Bayern will take encouragement from their ability to fight back under pressure.
With only one goal separating the teams, the outcome remains uncertain. Bayern Munich will look to make the most of home advantage in the second leg, while PSG will aim to replicate their attacking performance and secure a place in the final.
