Paris Saint-Germain claimed a 5-4 victory over Bayern Munich in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash at Parc des Princes on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The match delivered nine goals across a pulsating ninety minutes, with PSG’s attacking trio overwhelming Bayern’s defence before a late rally from the German side set up a tantalising second leg in Munich.
Both clubs fielded strong lineups for the encounter, with PSG under manager Luis Enrique and Bayern led by Aaron Danks navigating tactical adjustments throughout. Over 47,511 spectators witnessed what many are already calling one of the most thrilling Champions League semi-finals in recent memory.
The result leaves the tie finely poised ahead of the return fixture, where Bayern will look to overturn the narrow deficit on home soil.
What are the starting lineups for PSG vs Bayern Munich?
UCL Semifinal 1st Leg, 28.04.2026
PSG 5-4 Bayern
Parc des Princes, Paris
UEFA Champions League 2025/26
Key insights from the lineups
- PSG named Safonov in goal rather than their usual starter, a notable selection choice by Luis Enrique
- Bayern captain Manuel Neuer started between the posts despite recent injury concerns
- Both clubs deployed 4-3-3 formations, setting up an attacking contest from the outset
- PSG’s Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé combined for four goals across the match
- Bayern’s Harry Kane opened the scoring after 17 minutes before PSG responded
- Lucas Hernández featured for PSG after 83 minutes, his first action since recovering from injury
- Aaron Danks made his managerial debut in this high-pressure Champions League encounter
Confirmed starting XIs
| Paris Saint-Germain (4-3-3) | Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1) |
|---|---|
| GK: Safonov (39) | GK: Neuer (1, C) |
| DEF: Hakimi (2), Marquinhos (5, C), Pacho (51), Nuno Mendes (25) | DEF: Stanišić (44), Tah (4), Upamecano (2), Davies (19) |
| MID: Zaïre-Emery, Vitinha (17), João Neves (87) | MID: Kimmich (6), Pavlović (45) |
| FWD: D. Doué, O. Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia | FWD: Olise (17), Musiala (10), L. Díaz (14), Kane (9) |
Substitutes
PSG: Chevalier (GK), Marin (GK), Beraldo (4), Zabarnyi (6), L. Hernández (21), Dro (27), Lee Kang-In (19), Mayulu (24), Fabián Ruiz (8), Barcola (29), Mbaye (49), G. Ramos (9)
Bayern: Urbig (40, GK), Ulreich (26, GK), Minjae Kim (3), Laimer (27), H. Ito (21), Goretzka (8), Deniz Ofli (34), Pavic (43), Jackson (11)
Confirmed lineups were published simultaneously by PSG’s official website and FC Bayern’s official match centre, with third-party verification from Bulinews.
What was the score in PSG vs Bayern Munich Champions League semifinal?
Paris Saint-Germain secured a 5-4 victory over Bayern Munich in a match that produced nine goals across ninety minutes of gripping action. The final score read PSG 5-4 Bayern, with the home side holding a narrow lead heading into the second leg.
Goal scorers and timeline
- 17′ — Kane (Bayern) — 0-1
- 24′ — Kvaratskhelia (PSG) — 1-1
- 33′ — João Neves (PSG) — 2-1
- 41′ — Olise (Bayern) — 2-2
- 45’+5 — Dembélé (PSG, penalty) — 3-2 HT
- 56′ — Kvaratskhelia (PSG) — 4-2
- 58’/59′ — Dembélé (PSG) — 5-2
- 65′ — Upamecano (Bayern) — 5-3
- 68’/69′ — L. Díaz (Bayern) — 5-4 FT
PSG’s Kvaratskhelia found the net twice, while Ousmane Dembélé also scored a brace from open play and a penalty. João Neves added one further for the Parisian side. For Bayern, Harry Kane, Michael Olise, Dayot Upamecano, and Luis Díaz each registered one goal.
Substitutions made during the match
PSG: Fabián Ruiz replaced Zaïre-Emery at 64 minutes; Bradley Barcola came on for Doué at 71; Lucas Hernández and Senny Mayulu entered at 83 minutes for Nuno Mendes and Kvaratskhelia respectively.
Bayern: Konrad Laimer replaced Davies at half-time; Leon Goretzka came on for Musiala at 78; Nicolas Jackson entered in stoppage time for Pavlović.
Cards issued
PSG captain Marquinhos received a booking at 12 minutes, with Fabián Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi picking up yellow cards later in the match. Bayern received no bookings according to the match report.
What time did PSG vs Bayern Munich kick off and how to watch live?
The match kicked off at 21:00 CET on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris, France. For viewers in the United Kingdom, this translated to 20:00 BST. The encounter formed the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final between the two clubs.
Fans seeking live updates could follow official channels including UEFA’s official website, which provided real-time team sheets and match information. Both PSG and Bayern Munich published lineups through their respective digital platforms ahead of kickoff.
The return fixture will take place at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena. Exact details for the second leg had not been confirmed at time of publication. Fans are advised to monitor UEFA’s official platform for announcements regarding dates and kickoff times.
PSG vs Bayern Munich: Predictions, key players, and tactical notes
PSG entered the semi-final as the reigning Champions League holders, a factor that influenced pre-match discussions about their status as favourites. However, Bayern Munich’s quality, particularly in midfield through Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlović, presented a significant challenge.
Key performers from the first leg
Kvaratskhelia emerged as PSG’s standout performer, scoring two goals and constantly threatening Bayern’s defensive line. Dembélé matched his tally while operating in a free role behind the main striker. At the other end, Bayern’s Harry Kane demonstrated his finishing ability with an early goal, while Olise’s pace caused problems down the flanks.
Defensive vulnerabilities were exposed on both sides, with nine goals reflecting the attacking intent from both teams. Post-match analysis highlighted PSG’s “all-out attack” approach as a determining factor in their narrow advantage. For coverage of other elite European encounters, explore our analysis of FC Barcelona’s recent form ahead of their own Champions League commitments.
Both managers opted for offensive formations, with PSG’s 4-3-3 allowing their wide forwards to stretch Bayern’s backline. Bayern’s 4-2-3-1 provided numerical superiority in midfield but struggled to contain transitions when PSG broke quickly.
PSG vs Bayern Munich: Complete timeline of key moments
The following chronological breakdown captures the essential events from the first leg at Parc des Princes:
- Pre-match: Starting lineups confirmed by both clubs at 18:00 CET
- 21:00 CET: Kickoff at Parc des Princes
- 12′: Marquinhos (PSG) booked for a tactical foul
- 17′: Harry Kane opens scoring for Bayern from close range
- 24′: Kvaratskhelia equalises with a strike into the bottom corner
- 33′: João Neves curls in PSG’s second from outside the box
- 41′: Olise restores parity with a composed finish
- 45’+5: Dembélé converts a penalty to make it 3-2 at halftime
- 46′: Konrad Laimer replaces Davies for Bayern at halftime
- 56′: Kvaratskhelia scores his second to extend PSG’s lead
- 58’/59′: Dembélé adds his second from open play
- 64′: Fabián Ruiz replaces Zaïre-Emery for PSG
- 65′: Upamecano pulls one back for Bayern
- 68’/69′: L. Díaz bundles in to set up a grandstand finish
- 78′: Goretzka replaces Musiala for Bayern
- Full-time: PSG 5-4 Bayern Munich
What we know and what remains unclear about the match
| Established information | Information not yet available |
|---|---|
| Final score: PSG 5-4 Bayern | Exact date for second leg |
| Confirmed starting lineups from both clubs | Official attendance figure verification |
| Goal scorers and timestamps | Referee identity |
| Substitutions made during the match | Full possession and passing statistics |
| Yellow cards issued | Expected goals (xG) data |
| Match venue and kickoff time | Post-match manager comments |
Match details have been cross-referenced across PSG’s official site, Bayern’s official match centre, and Bulinews. Full statistical data including possession percentages and passing accuracy had not been released at time of compilation.
Context: The significance of PSG vs Bayern in Champions League history
This semi-final meeting between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich represents a clash between two of European football’s heavyweight clubs. PSG, champions of Europe in recent seasons, have established themselves as consistent contenders in the competition, while Bayern Munich’s rich history in the tournament includes multiple titles.
The first leg result, decided by the narrowest of margins despite nine goals, sets up what promises to be an equally dramatic return fixture. With PSG holding their advantage going into Munich, Bayern must overcome a one-goal deficit on home soil to progress to the final. Those following other Champions League ties may also be interested in our report on Manchester City versus Napoli for additional context on the tournament’s broader narrative.
Sources and official statements
The confirmed lineups and match details were verified through multiple official sources. PSG published their team sheet through their official website, while Bayern did the same through their club site. Both PSG and Bayern provided consistent information regarding starting elevens and substitutes.
UEFA’s official platform at UEFA.com confirmed the match details and provided access to live team sheets. Third-party verification came from Bulinews, which published confirmed lineups ahead of kickoff.
Summary: PSG edge Bayern in first leg thriller
Paris Saint-Germain take a 5-4 lead into the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich following a remarkable first encounter at Parc des Princes. Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé each scored twice for the hosts, while João Neves added one more. Bayern’s response came through Kane, Olise, Upamecano, and Díaz, but they ultimately fell short. With the tie still finely balanced, the return fixture at the Allianz Arena promises further drama as both sides pursue a place in the Champions League final.
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score between PSG and Bayern Munich?
PSG won 5-4 against Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on April 28, 2026.
Who scored for PSG in the match?
Kvaratskhelia scored twice, Dembélé scored twice including a penalty, and João Neves scored once for PSG.
Who scored for Bayern Munich?
Harry Kane, Michael Olise, Dayot Upamecano, and Luis Díaz each scored one goal for Bayern Munich.
What formation did PSG use?
PSG lined up in a 4-3-3 formation under manager Luis Enrique, with Safonov in goal.
Who is Bayern Munich’s manager for this match?
Aaron Danks was Bayern Munich’s manager for this Champions League semi-final first leg.
When is the second leg scheduled?
The second leg will take place at Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena, though the exact date had not been confirmed at time of publication.
How can I watch or follow the second leg?
Updates and confirmation for the second leg will be available through UEFA’s official platform and both clubs’ digital channels.
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Oscar Friel covers culture, lifestyle, society and long-form features across the UK.