Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain produced a dramatic comeback to defeat Bayern Munich 5-4 in a breathtaking UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg on Tuesday.
In one of the most thrilling semi-final encounters in recent memory, PSG recovered from an early setback to build a commanding 5-2 advantage before Bayern staged a late fightback to keep the tie alive ahead of the return leg in Munich.
Bayern struck first in the 17th minute when Harry Kane calmly converted from the penalty spot, setting a new mark as the first English player to score in six straight Champions League matches.
PSG responded strongly and levelled midway through the first half through Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who cut inside before firing a low finish beyond the goalkeeper.
The hosts then moved ahead in the 33rd minute when João Neves guided a header into the net.
Bayern, however, hit back before the break as Michael Olise found space on the edge of the area and finished clinically to make it 2-2.
There was still time for more first-half drama, with PSG awarded a penalty in stoppage time. Ousmane Dembélé made no mistake from the spot to restore the French side’s lead.
PSG carried their momentum into the second half. Kvaratskhelia grabbed his second goal in the 56th minute with a powerful strike before Dembélé added another two minutes later, finishing low off the post to make it 5-2.
Just when PSG appeared in complete control, Bayern launched a quick response. Dayot Upamecano reduced the deficit before Luis Díaz scored moments later to bring the German giants back within one goal.
Both teams continued to attack in the closing stages, with PSG hitting the woodwork through Senny Mayulu, but no further goals followed.
The result gives PSG a narrow advantage heading into next week’s decisive second leg at the Allianz Arena, where Bayern will look to overturn the deficit and book a place in the final.
The post PSG Edge Bayern 5-4 in Nine-Goal Champions League Thriller first appeared on Africa Top Sports.
