PSG edge out Bayern in nine-goal Champions League semi-final spectacle

PSG edge out Bayern in nine-goal Champions League semi-final spectacle

The encounter at the Parc des Princes equalled the highest-scoring semi-final in European Cup history, matching Rangers' 6-3 defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in 1960. It also marked the first time both sides have scored four or more goals in a European semi-final.

Despite the chaotic scoreline, Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer failed to register a single save. The visitors had struck first through Harry Kane's 17th-minute penalty - his 59th goal of the season - before Khvicha Kvaratskhelia quickly levelled. Joao Neves then put PSG ahead, only for Michael Olise to equalise again before the interval.

A dramatic stoppage-time penalty from Ousmane Dembele - awarded after a controversial VAR handball decision against Alphonso Davies - gave PSG a 3-2 half-time lead.

The hosts surged further ahead early in the second half, with Kvaratskhelia grabbing his second and Dembele scoring off the post, the two goals arriving within 143 seconds to make it 5-2.

Bayern responded swiftly: Dayot Upamecano headed home before Luis Díaz converted after a VAR reversal to bring it to 5-4 by the 68th minute.

"Even though there was nine goals scored, there was some amazing defending out there," Kane told Amazon Prime.

"You've got the best players in the world. The best attackers, the best defenders. Of course, sometimes the attackers are going to come out on top and show their quality.

"When you go back and look at the centre-halves playing in midfield, in attack sometimes, out wide against the wingers, credit to them. It's a really hard job. I thought they were outstanding."

Dembele, later named man of the match, proved decisive for Luis Enrique's defending champions, while Vincent Kompany's Bayern still harbour hopes of reaching their first final in six years.

"It was a match between two great teams who attack, who don't hesitate," Dembele told Canal Foot.

"We're happy with the result, even though at 5-2 we stopped playing a bit towards the end.

"We're not going to change our philosophy. We're going to attack, and they're going to attack too. So I think it's going to be a great second match."

The second leg at the Allianz Arena next Wednesday promises further drama - five more goals would set a new record for the highest-scoring knockout tie in Champions League history.
 

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