SOCCER: Holders PSG edge Bayern 5-4 in record-breaking semi-final first leg

PARIS – Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain edged Bayern Munich 5-4 in a dramatic Champions League semifinal first leg on Tuesday, in a match that produced a record number of goals at this stage of the competition.

The high-intensity clash between two of the tournament’s most attacking sides quickly lived up to expectations. PSG fell behind in the 17th minute when Harry Kane converted a penalty, but responded with goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Joao Neves to take a 2-1 lead.

Bayern fought back before halftime, with Michael Olise leveling the score in the 41st minute after a solo run that also included a shot off the post. However, Ousmane Dembele restored PSG’s advantage in first-half stoppage time from the penalty spot, sending the hosts into the break leading 3-2.

PSG then appeared to take control of the match early in the second half. Kvaratskhelia and Dembele struck twice within two minutes to extend the lead to 5-2 in the 58th minute, putting the French side in a commanding position.

Bayern, however, refused to collapse. The visitors responded with a spirited fightback, scoring three times in quick succession. Dayot Upamecano and Luis Diaz found the net within a three-minute span, cutting the deficit and keeping the tie alive heading into the second leg.

Despite Bayern’s late surge, PSG held on for a narrow victory in a match defined by relentless attacking play, defensive lapses, and momentum swings that kept the outcome in doubt until the final whistle.

The second leg will be played in Munich, where Bayern will look to overturn the one-goal deficit and reach the final. -Reporting by Karolos GrohmannEditing by Christian Radnedge/Reuters