Former Germany international and 2014 World Cup winner Benedikt Höwedes has suggested that Bayern Munich should look to exploit potential defensive weaknesses in Achraf Hakimi when they face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-finals.
The German side progressed to the last four after eliminating Real Madrid, while Paris Saint-Germain advanced following victories over Liverpool and their star forward Mohamed Salah. The French champions are continuing their campaign to defend their European title, setting up a high-profile encounter with Bayern.
Speaking in an interview published by Bild and reported by Africa Soccer, Höwedes highlighted the attacking strength of PSG’s full-backs but suggested that there may be space to exploit when they are caught out of position.
He said: “Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes are among the best attacking players in the world; but defensively, and especially with Hakimi, there are some gaps that can be exploited by Bayern Munich.”
Tactical focus on Hakimi’s flank
Höwedes argued that Bayern’s best route to success may lie in targeting Hakimi’s side of the pitch, particularly when the Moroccan international pushes forward to support attacks. He suggested that quick transitions could leave space behind the full-back, which Bayern could use to create dangerous opportunities.
Hakimi, known for his pace and attacking contribution, often plays an advanced role for PSG, which can sometimes leave defensive spaces exposed. Höwedes believes Bayern must be alert to this pattern if they are to gain an advantage in the tie.
The former defender also warned against underestimating PSG’s overall strength, noting that the French side have shown significant improvement in both physical condition and tactical organisation in recent weeks. Their quarter-final victory over Liverpool was highlighted as evidence of their current form.
Bayern urged to maintain peak condition
Höwedes stressed that Bayern will need to be at full strength across both legs of the semi-final if they are to progress to the final. He emphasised the importance of physical readiness and tactical discipline when facing a team of PSG’s quality.
He added: “Harry Kane and his teammates must be in top physical condition for the first leg, and of course for the second leg as well. Everything must be perfect to ensure we overcome the obstacle of a big team like Paris Saint-Germain .”
Hakimi’s history against Bayern
Hakimi is no stranger to facing Bayern Munich, having played against them on nine previous occasions. Four of those matches came during his time with PSG, while five were with Borussia Dortmund, where he spent two seasons on loan.
Across those encounters, Hakimi has experienced mixed results, recording three victories against Bayern while suffering six defeats.
High-stakes semi-final ahead
With both sides boasting attacking quality and European pedigree, the semi-final promises to be tightly contested. Höwedes’ comments add a tactical dimension to the build-up, with attention now turning to how Bayern approach PSG’s dynamic wide players.
As the tie approaches, the duel involving Hakimi is expected to be one of the key strategic battles in determining which club advances to the Champions League final.
