PSG Edges Bayern 5-4 in Champions League Semifinal First Leg, Sets Scoring Record

Context The match took place at Parc des Princes on Tuesday night, opening the 2024‑25 Champions League semifinal. PSG entered as defending champions, hunting a second straight title, while Bayern sought its first final appearance since 2020.

Both teams came into the leg with potent attacks; Bayern had scored 167 goals in the season, led by Harry Kane’s 53 in 45 appearances. PSG had also been prolific, relying on the wing play of Kvaratskhelia and the creativity of Dembele.

The encounter became the highest‑scoring semifinal first leg in Champions League history, surpassing the previous mark set in earlier seasons. The open‑ended nature of the game reflected the attacking philosophies of both coaches.

Key Facts PSG’s 5‑4 win broke the old record for most goals in a Champions League semifinal first leg. The previous high was lower, making this match a statistical outlier.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele each netted two goals, accounting for half of PSG’s total. After the final whistle, Harry Kane said the comeback showed his team’s character and their ability to recover from deficits at the highest level.

What It Means The one‑goal advantage leaves the tie level ahead of the return leg at the Allianz Arena. Bayern will look to overturn the deficit on home soil, where they have historically been strong in knockout matches.

PSG must defend its lead while avoiding complacency, knowing a single away goal could shift the aggregate. A clean sheet or a goal away would put them in a commanding position.

The result also highlights both teams’ attacking potency, suggesting an open second leg. Expect plenty of chances as each side seeks to impose its style.

What to watch next: The second leg on Wednesday will decide which club advances to the final in Budapest on May 30, with Bayern needing a two‑goal swing to progress.