The PSG vs Bayern Thriller provided one of the best nights of the Champions League in recent times, with Paris Saint-Germain emerging triumphant 5-4 in a spectacular semi-final first leg held in Paris. At a time when control, organisation and a conservative approach figure so prominently at the world’s premier level of club football, this clash was a reminder of why football is the world’s most popular sport. It was crazy, fearless, emotional and full of excitement from start to finish. And crucially, it’s not over for the return in Munich.
First of all, Parc des Princes gave a great show. Both fan-stands have displayed huge tifos before the match and transformed the arena into a billboard. The PSG fans chanted “Conquer Europe” and the Bayern supporters urged their team to fight. It was an immediate response from the players as the first half ended up a generation long.
Bayern opened the scoring when Harry Kane scored from the spot-kick but the French champions replied with an lovely finish by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. And Joao Neves headed PSG ahead before Michael Olise produced a goal of beauty to equalise. It was all far from over. Ousmane Dembele coolly scored a penalty before half-time to put PSG into the second half with a 3-2 advantage. Extra goals, pressing attack and constant action – five goals in 45 minutes.
But the second half was even more frenetic. The game was seemingly well and truly in the bag for PSG with Kvaratskhelia collecting another goal and Dembele his second to make it 5-2. At this point, it was assumed the game was well and truly in the bag. The Germans appeared exhausted, vulnerable and in danger of becoming a casualty. But football teams are seldom defeated easily, and the German champions remain one of Europe’s best.
Dayot Upamecano equalised, turning the tide. Then Diaz equalised and the home fans were still – the tie was back at one goal. PSG seemingly well up in the match, were suddenly forced to fight for a lead. Not finding the equaliser, Bayern went into half-time with a less-than-a-goal lead.
Coach Luis Enrique declared it was the most thrilling game of his career, and there’s little doubt it was. Enrique’s team was quick, skillful and brave. Vitinha dominated central control, Dembele was a goal poacher and Kvaratskhelia showcased some glossy skills. PSG’s striking front was rewarded by Bayern’s forward defense.
However, both teams’ defences could be improved. Bayern’s attack-oriented style had gaps in their defence. PSG capitalised. In return, PSG lost their cool after Bayern began their comeback. They could not successfully execute in the latter part of the match means the game is still hung by a thread.
Wayne Rooney lambasted the defence in both camps, but many lauded the offensive. This is because they are both right. The defending wasn’t perfect, but the beauty was terrific. Not all football outcomes need to be neat and clean. Ugly is often beautiful.
Finally, this is positive for Europe too. Arsenal and Atletico Madrid (also in the other semi-final) can be sure the bar is now higher. PSG and Bayern proved we can take risks and be ambitious. Technical excellence is important, but what’s critical is a readiness to play.
The return game in Munich will now be another epic. The momentum and spirit of Bayern is on the side of Bayner, while the skill of PSG allows them to hold form. And if the first time is anything to go by, then fans around the world should be in for a treat.
It wasn’t just a semi-final. It was football at full volume.
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