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In this exceptional football spectacle, Paris Saint-Germain secured what mattered most: Victory.
In their third consecutive semi-final, and sixth in the UEFA Champions League, PSG sent the Parc des Princes into raptures in this match, though they may have some regrets.
5 Shots on target, 5 goals scored by PSG
Total clinical efficiency from PSG, something never before seen at this stage of the Champions League. A brace from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembélé, plus a header from João Neves. What an attacking masterclass from Les Parisiens. PSG have become the first French club to score five goals in a Champions League semi-final. It had also been 31 years since Bayern Munich last conceded five goals in the Champions League.
Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia were outstanding
The Ballon d’Or winner was the man of the match. Scoring two goals and providing the assist for Joao Neves’ goal, Dembélé was also a key figure in PSG’s counter-attacking play. The France international was also very strong in his pressing. And what can be said of Kvaratskhelia? Another key player for PSG in big matches, with a remarkable brace, relentless activity in attack, and top-quality defensive cover.
A significant drop in PSG’s physical output after the 5-2 lead just before the hour mark proved costly
This sharp drop in intensity across the whole team cost PSG dearly, with two goals conceded in three minutes, scored by Dayot Upamecano (65’) and Luis Diaz (68’). Another example of PSG’s physical struggles was Nuno Mendes’ cramp in the 82nd minute. From 5-2 to 5-4, PSG now holds just a one-goal lead ahead of next week’s semi-final second leg. Despite this physical dip, PSG came close to making it 6-4 with Senny Mayulu’s shot hitting the crossbar (87’).
Achraf Hakimi’s injury
One of the evening’s pieces of bad news. The Morocco international picked up an injury to his right thigh following a heavy challenge with Konrad Laimer on the edge of the German penalty area (88’). With Luis Enrique unable to make any further substitutions, Hakimi remained on the pitch nonetheless to help his teammates secure victory in this semi-final first leg. PSG are keeping their fingers crossed that the right-back’s injury isn’t too serious.
A fantastic match, so many goals in a semi-final – something almost unheard of at this stage of the competition
Thirteen shots on target, 9 goals, incredible attacks from both sides, and a superb response from the reigning champions, who didn’t falter after Harry Kane opened the score via a penalty kick. Nine goals in a semi-final is a first in the competition since 1960. It was a real treat for football fans, and we’re all looking forward to next week for the second leg of this semi-final.
