Key Takeaways
- Paris Saint-Germain defeated Bayern Munich 5-4 in a record-breaking Champions League semi-final first leg in Paris.
- French newspapers hailed the match as a work of art and a historic night for the club’s 100th European victory.
- Bayern Munich showed fighting spirit by scoring twice late on, setting up an exciting return leg in Germany next week.
Football writers across Europe have described the nine-goal battle between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich as one of the greatest matches in recent Champions League history. The French side claimed a narrow 5-4 advantage in Tuesday’s first leg at the Parc des Princes, breaking the record for the highest-scoring semi-final ever seen in the competition.
The victory marked a special moment for PSG, as it was their 100th win in Europe’s top club tournament. French publications celebrated this milestone with great passion. L’Équipe called the game “a prodigious battle” full of intensity and skill, giving special praise to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembélé, who each found the net twice. Football writer Vincent Duluc described the evening as a “whirlwind of emotion” that showed modern football at its very best.
Le Parisien went even further with its praise, calling the night “pure madness” and “the pinnacle of art and culture.” The newspaper described the match as a “museum of world wonders” that fans will talk about for generations. However, the paper also warned that Bayern’s late goals could prove vital when the teams meet again in Munich next Wednesday.
German media focused on both the weaknesses and the strength of Bayern’s display. Magazine Kicker labelled the match a “football festival” and admitted the German champions were almost beaten heavily. However, they praised the team’s character for fighting back from 5-2 down to 5-4 through late strikes. The report noted that both sides showed brilliant attacking quality but also defensive problems.
Italian newspapers were particularly impressed with Kvaratskhelia. La Gazzetta dello Sport called the Georgian winger “Kvara” and said his equalising goal was “pure magic.” The paper called the match “real football” and “football in its finest essence.” However, Corriere dello Sport noted that opinions were divided, with some fans loving the chaotic action while others felt it resembled a video game more than a proper tactical battle.
In Spain, the focus fell on Barcelona connections. PSG manager Luis Enrique, who previously coached the Catalan giants, called it “the best match I have ever coached.” Marca newspaper praised the “breathtaking” nature of the contest, while AS highlighted Bayern’s “winning mentality” and their hopes for the second leg.
The return match takes place in Munich next Wednesday, with both teams knowing that defence must improve if they want to reach the final.