Luis Enrique challenged Arsenal to prepare for a Champions League final against a Paris Saint-Germain team who are the best in the tournament after the holders progressed past Bayern Munich.
“Do I believe we can win the final? Yes,” Enrique said after PSG returned to the final thanks to a draw in Munich. “Do you remember what I said after group stage? I said I don't see any team being better than we are. The critics were saying that PSG are maybe not that great, but I was right.”
PSG won their first Champions League title last season by beating Inter Milan 5-0 in the final and are bidding to become just the second team in the competition’s modern era to defend their title, following Real Madrid’s hat-trick of triumphs from 2016 to 2018.
It sets up an enticing final against Arsenal, who are bidding for a sensational Premier League-Champions League double under Mikel Arteta after defeating Atletico Madrid amid joyous scenes at the Emirates on Tuesday night.
"Bayern are at our level and Arsenal have been one of the best teams this season,” Enrique added. “They have had an incredible year and are still chasing the Premier League. They are in the final, but I believe in my team and it is important to underline that.
“We showed over the last three years that we are ready to play against any opponents. This is a team you can count on because we are always fighting.”
Champions League: Bayern Munich v Paris Saint-Germain
- PSG defeat Bayern Munich 6-5 on aggregate in Champions League semi-final
- Miguel Delaney: Arsenal v PSG is a battle of contrasts, with a much deeper significance
- Luis Enrique confident no team is better than PSG after reaching final
- Declan Rice calls on Arsenal fans to take over Budapest for Champions League final
The seven games which exposed the crucial difference between Man City and Arsenal
11:59 , Richard JollyMarc Guehi looked glum as he headed for the Manchester City bus outside Hill Dickinson Stadium. Understandably, too. His ability to pick the right pass had helped him settle smoothly into the City defence. Until he picked the wrong pass, supplied Thierno Barry with a goal and a 3-3 draw altered the title race.
It may be of scant consolation to Guehi now but, if Arsenal hold on to their advantage at the Premier League summit, his uncharacteristic error will be far from the only reason. In the last couple of years, there has been the temptation to deem this team the City of old: the relentless, remorseless winning machine. They are not, though. City have finished a league season with 14 straight wins before. They needed to be perfect in this run-in, to win their last eight: but this is an imperfect side.
The seven games which exposed the crucial difference between Man City and Arsenal
The best Champions League travel routes for Arsenal fans as prices soar
11:29 , Simon CalderExclusive: Direct air fares from London to the Hungarian capital start at around £1,000, with a night in an ‘economy double’ hotel room priced at £2,000
The best Champions League travel routes for Arsenal fans as prices soar
When could Arsenal win the Premier League? Remaining title race fixtures compared to Man City
10:59 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal’s hopes of winning a first Premier League title in 22 years are now in their hands after Manchester City dropped points in an extraordinary collapse at Everton.
Mikel Arteta’s side are five points clear of City, who have a game in hand, and it means the Gunners will lift the Premier League if they win their final three games against West Ham, Burnley and Crystal Palace.
Pep Guardiola insisted City will not give up the fight and they will play before Arsenal’s next game. Arteta’s team are away to Premier League strugglers West Ham, who will be fighting for their lives on Sunday evening.
When could Arsenal win the Premier League? Remaining fixtures compared to Man City
Extra flights arranged to fly more Arsenal fans to Champions League final
09:59 , Jamie BraidwoodAirlines are boosting flight capacity to Budapest for Arsenal fans heading to the Champions League final.
Wizz Air confirmed it will double its capacity from south-east England to the Hungarian capital on 29 May, operating eight flights from Luton and Gatwick combined.
Four additional flights are scheduled for the following day, ensuring fans arrive before the 5pm BST kick-off.
Extra flights arranged to fly Arsenal fans to Champions League final
Arsenal’s Champions League win over Atletico Madrid sparked ‘record surge in broadband traffic’
09:29 , Jamie BraidwoodVirgin Media O2 recorded its highest-ever broadband traffic spike as millions across the UK tuned in to watch Arsenal's Uefa Champions League semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid.
Peak downstream traffic on the network surged by 17 per cent compared to an average Tuesday evening, marking an unprecedented event in Virgin Media’s broadband history.
This figure was 4.2 per cent higher than the previous record, established during Liverpool’s Champions League match against Real Madrid last November.
Arsenal’s Champions League win over Atleti sparked ‘record broadband traffic spike’
Luis Enrique says PSG reaching Champions League final is ‘a gift’
08:59 , Jamie BraidwoodLuis Enrique believes PSG gave their supporters “a gift” by reaching the Champions League final following a 6-5 aggregate win over Bayern Munich.
After last week’s nine-goal thriller in France, Ousmane Dembele’s third-minute goal in the Allianz Arena got the second leg off to the perfect start for the holders and left Bayern chasing a two-goal deficit that ultimately proved too much.
Harry Kane’s goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time made it 1-1 on the night but arrived too late to seriously unsettle the visitors, who will play Arsenal in the final in Budapest on May 30.
Luis Enrique says Paris St Germain reaching Champions League final is ‘a gift’
The little known rule which saw Bayern Munich denied penalty against PSG
08:29 , Jamie Braidwood- Bayern Munich have expressed their fury after a controversial handball decision went against them during their Champions League semi-final against PSG.
- The incident involved PSG's Joao Neves, whose arm was struck by the ball after a deflection off teammate Vitinha, prompting strong penalty appeals from Bayern players.
- Despite clear contact and Neves' arm being in an elevated position, VAR did not intervene, upholding the on-field decision.
- The ruling was rooted in the Law of the Game, which specifies a handball is not committed if a player is hit by a ball played by a teammate, provided it does not lead directly to a goal or immediate scoring opportunity.
- This perceived inconsistency drew widespread criticism, with Harry Kane among the Bayern players to remonstrate with officials.
Voici pourquoi il n’a pas sifflé penalty sur la main de João Neves :
— 𝙑𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙝𝙤 🇮🇹 (@TomLaZone) May 6, 2026
- Le ballon vient du coéquipier de João Neves (Vitinha) à bout portant.
- Il n’a quasiment aucun temps de réaction.
- Son bras est dans une position naturelle liée à son mouvement.
- Il ne fait aucun geste vers… pic.twitter.com/1SJSAzzprh
Luis Enrique confident no team is better than PSG after reaching final
08:13 , Jamie Braidwood“Do I believe we can win the final? Yes," Luis Enrique said. “Do you remember what I said after group stage?
“I said I don't see any team being better than we are. The critics were saying that PSG are maybe not that great, but I was right.
“Bayern are at our level and Arsenal have been one of the best teams this season. They have had an incredible year and are still chasing the Premier League.
“They are in the final, but I believe in my team and it is important to underline that.
“We showed over the last three years that we are ready to play against any opponents. This is a team you can count on because we are always fighting.”
Arsenal v PSG is a battle of contrasts, with a much deeper significance
08:10 , Miguel DelaneyArsenal, if you listen to some at the club, may now have their chance at “revenge”. They felt they were actually better than Paris Saint-Germain in last season’s semi-final, which may still baffle many people who’ve watched the Qatari project since.
That has meant the semi-finals have often represented the absolute peak of club football, even if this year’s didn’t reach the heights that had been anticipated.
There are of course caveats. PSG benefit from all of the advantages of being a Qatari sportswashing project, at the same time that power has trampled Ligue 1.
The new darlings of the competition do bring darker discussions.
PSG would not just become the first side since Real Madrid in 2018 to retain the trophy, and just the second in the Champions League era.
Arsenal v PSG is a battle of contrasts, with a much deeper significance
PSG produce measured sequel to set up intriguing Arsenal clash in Champions League final
08:00 , Mike JonesParis Saint-Germain will play Arsenal in the Champions League final after they drew 1-1 with Bayern Munich in the Allianz Arena to seal a 6-5 aggregate semi-final victory.
After the astonishing first leg in Paris a week ago that saw the European champions triumph by the odd goal in nine, this was a more measured but no less fascinating affair, Ousmane Dembele’s goal in the third minute giving the visitors a two-goal advantage in the tie.
PSG produce measured sequel to set up Arsenal clash in Champions League final
The Arsenal blueprint that ground down Atletico Madrid – and could take them to Champions League glory
06:00 , Miguel DelaneyAfter admirably digging in, Arsenal now rise to the greatest stage. A season that has been characterised by such angst and toil may yet finish with jubilation and ascension – twice over.
You could see from the final whistle this meant everything, as players punched the air in joy. The Premier League trophy and European Cup are both now within touching distance.
The Arsenal blueprint that could take them to Champions League glory
Mikel Arteta explains ‘gut feeling’ selection that paid off in win over Atletico Madrid
04:00 , Lawrence OstlereMikel Arteta said he trusted his “gut” when he decided to select the same XI from the win over Fulham at the weekend for Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg victory over Atletico Madrid.
A tap-in from captain Bukayo Saka just before halftime and a ninth clean sheet in this season's competition gave Arsenal a 2-1 aggregate semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid.
Mikel Arteta explains ‘gut feeling’ selection that paid off in win over Atletico
Declan Rice calls on Arsenal fans to take over Budapest for Champions League final
03:00 , Mike JonesDeclan Rice has issued an impassioned plea to Arsenal supporters, urging 200,000 fans to descend on Budapest and propel the club towards an historic first Champions League title.
The midfielder’s rallying cry follows Bukayo Saka’s decisive goal at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night, which secured a 2-1 aggregate triumph over Atletico Madrid and a place in the showpiece final in the Hungarian capital on 30 May – Arsenal’s first on Europe’s grandest stage in 20 years.
Declan Rice calls on Arsenal fans to take over Budapest for Champions League final
It will be difficult against Arsenal
02:00 , Mike JonesPSG winger Khivcha Kvaratskhelia said: "Very happy we're in the final. We know it will be difficult aganst Arsenal. Bayern is one of the best teams right now.
“It was very difficult. The hardest one in the season. We showed we can play against these teams. I will give everything for this badge."
PSG deserved to win
01:00 , Mike JonesHere’s Bayern Munich defender Jonathan Tah: "They deserved to go to the final. Both games were close. They were different games - you can't compare them. They won twice so you have to give it to them. They scored the first goal really fast. They defended really good for a lot of minutes. We didn't put enough pressure on the backline.
"It feels very disappointing right now. To be successful you have to deal with difficult moments. You can't always be the winning team. We can be proud of the way we handled ourselves and gave everything.
"It will be a good game [the final] but I'm not focusing on this game."
PSG defeat Bayern in Champions League semi-final
Thursday 7 May 2026 00:00 , Mike JonesThere were 11 goals scored across the two legs, with only two semi-final ties seeing more in the Champions League (since 1992-93) – Liverpool v Roma in 2017-18 and Barcelona v Inter Milan last season (both 13).
A capital job
Wednesday 6 May 2026 23:48 , Mike JonesThe final will only be the fourth European Cup or Champions League final between sides from two different capital cities after Benfica vs Real Madrid (1962), Real Madrid vs Partizan Belgrade (1966) and Ajax vs Panathinaikos (1971).
Reaction from PSG boss
Wednesday 6 May 2026 23:39 , Mike JonesLuis Enrique said: "Good memories. We could leave the match with a lot of intensity. The defence were better than the attack. The character we showed against a team like Bayern is so positive. We're so happy to reach a second Champions League final in a row.
"It was very intense. Very difficult. They play football at the highest level. Both teams are similar, we love to press higher. We are very happy.
"In two days I'm going to celebrate my birthday. I'm very happy. We're in the next phase of the competition, the final of the Champions League. We want to give our supporters that kind of gift."
PSG produce measured sequel to set up intriguing Arsenal clash in Champions League final
Wednesday 6 May 2026 23:30 , Mike JonesParis Saint-Germain will play Arsenal in the Champions League final after they drew 1-1 with Bayern Munich in the Allianz Arena to seal a 6-5 aggregate semi-final victory.
After the astonishing first leg in Paris a week ago that saw the European champions triumph by the odd goal in nine, this was a more measured but no less fascinating affair, Ousmane Dembele’s goal in the third minute giving the visitors a two-goal advantage in the tie.
PSG produce measured sequel to set up Arsenal clash in Champions League final
Can PSG emulate Real Madrid?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 23:12 , Mike JonesReal Madrid are the only team who have successfully defended the Champions League before (ie excluding the European Cup days).
Can PSG emulate them at the end of May?
In the final again
Wednesday 6 May 2026 23:06 , Mike JonesParis Saint-Germain are the first team to reach consecutive Champions League finals since Liverpool in 2019, and the first holders to reach the final since Real Madrid in 2018.
Reaction from Neuer
Wednesday 6 May 2026 23:00 , Mike JonesThe Bayern Munich goalkeeper told DAZN: "I think we didn't have the killer instinct in attack today, but ultimately we did have the opportunities to win the game.
"We didn’t have many clear-cut chances, but when you do get those moments... look at Paris – they were simply killers, scoring five goals the way they did in the first leg.
“That’s exactly what we needed today. And I think you could see that we were actually close to reaching the final, but we weren’t able to finish the job."
The three crucial changes behind Arsenal’s transformative Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:54 , Miguel DelaneyBy the time the Arsenal players eventually got back to their dressing room, unable to stop embracing each other and thumping the air in delight, Mikel Arteta barely said a thing. He knew he didn’t need to, but he also knew he probably wouldn’t have been able to get a word in if he tried. There was too much joy, too many people jumping around. It was all about the “feeling”, as Arteta put it.
The same was true of the 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid itself. Arsenal were obviously tactically drilled and primed, but they were also well aware that the key to this match was a willingness to fight. The feeling.
The three crucial changes behind Arsenal’s transformative Champions League victory
Who is performing in the pre-match show?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:48 , Mike JonesThe Killers are headlining the pre-match entertainment on the night. In recent years, artists such as Linkin Park and Lenny Kravitz have performed at the final.
How can I watch the final?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:42 , Mike JonesViewers in the United Kingdom can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage on the channel from 7pm BST. A live stream will also be available via HBO Max and the HBO app.
In the United States, the match will be broadcast in English on CBS and streamed live on Paramount+. Spanish-language coverage is available on Univision and TUDN, which can also be streamed via Fubo.
When is the Champions League final?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:36 , Mike JonesThe Champions League final between Arsenal and PSG is at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary on Saturday 30 May with kick-off at 5pm BST (6pm local time).
That is a change from previous years when the match would kick-off at 8pm BST, with Uefa explaining earlier kick-off was selected to enhance the matchday experience for fans and to optimise logistics such as public transport.
Ousmane Dembele has lighter thrown at him by fans in Bayern v PSG Champions League semi-final
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:30 , Mike JonesBayern Munich fans pelted Paris Saint-Germain star Ousmane Dembele with a lighter and plastic cups during their Champions League semi-final at the Allianz Arena.
When reigning Ballon d’Or winner Dembele – who had scored earlier in the match – went to take a 34th-minute corner down by the Bayern fans, he was bombarded by a slew of plastic cups and an object that turned out to be a red cigarette lighter from the crowd that forced him to walk away.
Dembele has lighter thrown at him by fans in Bayern v PSG Champions League semi-final
Mbappe to win golden boot?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:24 , Mike JonesKylian Mbappe has scored the most goals in the Champions League this season with 15.
Harry Kane is just behind him on 14 and the only player left in the competition who can add to their tally is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
He’s got 10 so far and is unlikely to score five or more against Arsenal in the final.
That should mean Mbappe will win the golden boot this year.
A consolation for Kane
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:18 , Mike JonesIt won’t matter to him now but Harry Kane scored in a seventh consecutive Champions League match tonight and recorded his 55 goal of the season.
It’s an incredible record from the England captain.
What a tie!
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:12 , Mike JonesHere’s some thoughts from TNT Sports pundit Ally McCoist.
He said: “What a tie, one of the great ties.
“The football was amazing. Boy can they defend and they defended superbly.
“Yes Kane got his goal and it was a good one. But PSG deserved it.”
FT Bayern 1-1 PSG (5-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:06 , Mike Jones
Full-time! Bayern 1-1 PSG (5-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 22:00 , Mike Jones90+8 mins: There goes the full time whistle.
PSG have done it. They’ve beaten Bayern Munich across two legs and it was the fifth goal in the first leg that proved the difference.
Harry Kane scored late in the game but there wasn’t enough time to force extra-time.
PSG will go to Budapest and take on Arsenal.
GOAL! Bayern 1-1 PSG (5-6 agg) - Harry Kane, 90+4'
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:58 , Mike JonesHarry Kane scores!
There’s less than 90 seconds left on the clock and the striker spins inside the box and fires home to give some hope to the watching supporters.
Can Bayern pull off a miracle?
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:57 , Mike Jones90+2 mins: Bayern are pushing to be fair but PSG are very strong defensively.
Marquinhos has been immense, especially backing up Zaire-Emery who is play out of position.
It’s not going to go Bayern’s way.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:53 , Mike Jones90 mins: Five minutes of added time to play. Bayern need two goals.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:50 , Mike Jones87 mins: Luis Diaz dances into the box from the left and squares the ball.
It comes to Laimer who blasts a shot and appeals immediately for a handball.
Bayern are convinced but a VAR check says otherwise.
No, it’s not a penalty. It hits Joao Neves in the chest.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:47 , Mike Jones84 mins: Luis Enrique has masterminded a tactical masterclass tonight.
Score the early goal, keep possession, frustrate the opposition, defend well.
PSG look set to be heading to the Champions League final once again.
There’s only a few minutes left.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:42 , Mike Jones81 mins: PSG win a corner kick despite Kvaratskhelia scuffing a chance to put the game to bed.
Vitinha sends it into the box but there’s no threat to Neuer.
Into the last 10 minutes or so of play now. Bayern are entering the last chance saloon.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:41 , Mike Jones78 mins: Luis Diaz goes down on the edge of the box and rolls into the loose ball.
He wants a free kick and grabs the ball before the whistle goes.
The referee instead books him for handball.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:40 , Mike Jones75 mins: Davies slips the ball into the box for Kane but he’s forced wide.
PSG have marke dhim brilliantly tonight. Kane hasn’t had a chance to line up the goal yet.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:34 , Mike Jones72 mins: Close!
Kvaratskhelia is too tricky with the ball at his feet and he weaves his way to the front edge of the box before slipping a pass to Doue.
Doue shoots and strikes one well but only manages to find the side netting.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:31 , Mike Jones69 mins: Save!
Davies’ first real interaction is to get forward on the left then pick out Diaz in the box.
Diaz takes a touch then hits the dropping ball at goal only for Safonov to keep it out!
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:30 , Mike Jones66 mins: A cross from the right from Bayern is aimed at Pavlovic but it sails over everyone’s head and goes out for a goal kick.
Kompany makes a couple of changes with Kim-Min Jae and and Alphonso Davies brought on to replace Jonathan Tah and Josip Stanisic.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:28 , Mike Jones63 mins: Luis Enrique makes a change for PSG with Ousmane Dembele going off in favour of Bradley Barcola.
Dembele’s goal is the one separating the teams tonight but PSG lead by two on aggregate.
Bayern are running out of time to get this game back in their favour.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:27 , Mike Jones60 mins: An hour played and still no joy for Bayern Munich.
They’ve not really come close in this half yet and it’s been Neuer who has had to make the key saves.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:19 , Mike Jones57 mins: Save!
Neuer is keeping Bayern in the contest. First he denies Doue from the right side of the box with a pair of strong hands then he keeps out Kvaratskhelia’s effort with a left leg.
Another goal for PSG and that’ll be this tie over with.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:17 , Mike Jones54 mins: Kane and Marquinhos leap for the same aerial ball and Kane wins a free kick for taking an elbow in the face.
Kimmich stands over the free kick and plays it out wide to Diaz.
Diaz sends it back to Pavlovic who side foots a shot well wide of the far post.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:14 , Mike Jones51 mins: Musiala wins Bayern Munich a free kick and it’s switched out to the right wing.
Olises comes away with the ball and Bayern feed it across the edge of the box to Kane who shoots and has another effort blocked.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:11 , Mike Jones48 mins: Pacho takes a knock to the head and goes down needing a bit of treatment from the medics.
There’s a pause in play while the PSG defender is seen to. He’s on his feet and looks fine.
Second half! Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:08 , Mike JonesPSG get the ball rolling for the second half.
Bayern need to get the next goal. That’ll get the crowd going and it’ll make PSG more wary.
What twists does this match have yet in store?
Arsenal’s Champions League win over Atletico Madrid sparked ‘record surge in broadband traffic’
Wednesday 6 May 2026 21:03 , Mike JonesVirgin Media O2 recorded its highest-ever broadband traffic spike as millions across the UK tuned in to watch Arsenal's Uefa Champions League semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid.
Peak downstream traffic on the network surged by 17 per cent compared to an average Tuesday evening, marking an unprecedented event in Virgin Media’s broadband history.
Arsenal’s Champions League win over Atleti sparked ‘record broadband traffic spike’
HT Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:59 , Mike JonesBayern Munich have had the most possession with 58% compared to PSG’s 42%.
The hosts have also had nine shots but only one of those has been on target.
PSG in comparison have had six shots and half of those have been hitting the goal.
It’s all going PSG’s way so far.
HT Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:55 , Mike JonesOusmane Dembele has the only goal of the game tonight. Is there a way back for Bayern?
Half-time! Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:50 , Mike Jones45+2 mins: Just the two minutes of added time played at the end of this first half and Bayern can’t cut the deficit.
The teams head into the break with PSG in full control of the tie.
They’re two goals to the good and don’t look like conceding... yet.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:46 , Mike Jones45 mins: Save!
A backheel flick from Olise gives the ball to Musiala who drives to the box.
Kane drags the central defenders away allowing Musiala to shoot bu Safonov drops low and pushes the ball away from the target!
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:44 , Mike Jones42 mins: Nearly!
Olise slips a pass down the right side and finds Musiala’s diagonal run.
Musiala takes the ball to the byline and pulls it back into the middle for Kaneonly for Safonov to slap the ball away from the striker.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:42 , Mike Jones39 mins: It feels as though Bayern need a goal before half-time just to get themselves into the game.
The early goal is still hurting them and Vincent Kompany is issuing more instructions from the sidelines.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:37 , Mike Jones36 mins: Dembele stands over the corner kick and plays it short. The ball comes out to Vitinha whose shot from range is deflected out for another corner by Olise.
The second attempt is also played wide of the box and it’s Nuno Mendes who shoots this time but the ball loops intothe air and Neuer claims it.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:36 , Mike Jones34 mins: Save!
A long free kick is sent into the far side of the Bayern box and Joao Neves is there.
He nods the ball down into the pitch but Neuer leaps to the left and pushes the ball behind for a corner.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:34 , Mike Jones32 mins: Another appeal for handball!
The referee waves this one away too. It’s inside the penalty area and Vitinha’s clearance smokes Joao Neves on the left hand.
His hand is away from his body but the ball was smashed at him. There’s a VAR check but Bayern are left disappointed.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:32 , Mike Jones30 mins: Now then!
Nuno Mendes, who’s on a yellow card, looks to have handled the ball and the Bayern players are appealing for a red card.
The referee, however, saw a foul from Bayern before that incident and awards PSG the free kick which has saved them from going down to 10-men.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:31 , Mike Jones28 mins: Close!
Bayern come very near to pulling a goal back and it’s Michael Olise.
He brings the ball under control, skips inside of Mendes then lifts a curling effort just over the crossbar!
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:28 , Mike Jones27 mins: Dayot Upamecano leaves a bit too much on Nuno Mendes after beating him to a loose ball with a wild lunge.
Mendes stays down for a while before getting to his feet and letting play continue.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:26 , Mike Jones24 mins: PSG are more focused on keeping possession tonight.
They’re taking their time in the build and then decide to burst into life near the final third.
It’s a very slight tactical tweak from Luis Enrique and one that works brilliantly with a two-goal cushion.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:24 , Mike Jones21 mins: Kvaratskhelia dances into the box from the left and shoots but whips the ball into the hands of Manuel Neuer.
Bayern’s goalkeeper releases the ball quickly and Bayern sweep forward.
Kane picks out Luis Diaz who then jiggles past Warren Zaire-Emery and fizzes a shot over the top!
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:20 , Mike Jones18 mins: PSG look confident and comfortable. They are getting a lot of joy against Konrad Laimer with Kvaratskhelia being top class.
It also feels as though they’ve had the most possession with Bayern still struggling to settle.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:18 , Mike Jones15 mins: Close!
Bayern force their way into the penalty from the left and Jamal Musiala collides with Marquinhos in the box.
There’s a snapshot from Olise which gets blocked by Nuno Mendes and PSG transition quickly into the counter.
Kvaratskhelia burst forward, takes the ball into the box and shoots managing to win a corner kick.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:14 , Mike Jones12 mins: Harry Kane gets his first sight of goal but it’s not the best.
He drifts over to the right side of the box and is fed the pass by Olise who has come into a more central position.
Kane takes a touch and lets fly but can’t get the effort past the first defender which is Willian Pacho.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:11 , Mike Jones9 mins: The first card of the night goes to Nuno Mendes after he stands on Olise’s left foot with the Bayern winger threatening to burst clear.
The resultant free kick is curled into the penalty area by Olise but his pass sails out of play.
Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:09 , Mike Jones6 mins: That early goal is a killer for Bayern who now need to score twice just to get on level terms.
The match has barely begun and PSG have inflicted the first blow.
Bayern will now look to outscore their opponents and that could mean a repeat of last week’s encounter.
GOAL! Bayern 0-1 PSG (4-6 agg) - Ousmane Dembele, 3'
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:06 , Mike JonesWow!
Fabian Ruiz threads a delightful pass out to Khivcha Kvaratskhelia on the left wing.
He bombs forward before cutting in towards the box and squaring the ball to Ousmane Dembele.
Dembele wastes no time with his shot and smokes it beautifully into the back of the net!
Bayern 0-0 PSG (4-5 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:05 , Mike Jones2 mins: Michael Olise looks to skip down the right wing and dinks the ball inside of Nuno Mendes.
The defender holds his ground and Olise hits the deck. The referee says no foul.
Kick off! Bayern 0-0 PSG (4-5 agg)
Wednesday 6 May 2026 20:03 , Mike JonesBayern Munich get the ball rolling and boot it over to the right side of the pitch where it is won by the visitors.
PSG quickly look to go on the attack and feed the ball up to Desire Doue but the hosts recover it without too much trouble.
Bayern Munich vs PSG
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:56 , Mike JonesThe players make their way out of the tunnel and onto the pitch at the Allianz Arena.
PSG hold a one goal advantage in this match but Bayern will be confident of overturning that pretty quickly.
How important will Harry Kane be tonight? Kick off is up next...
Kane's longest run
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:50 , Mike JonesHarry Kane has scored 13 Champions League goals for Bayern Munich this season, just two shy of the record for goals in a major European season for the club, set by Jürgen Klinsmann in the 1995-96 (15) and Robert Lewandowski in the 2019-20 Champions League (15).
He’s also scored in his last six appearances in the competition – the longest ever run by an Englishman in the European Cup (since 1955).
Midfield maestros
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:45 , Mike JonesBayern Munich pair Joshua Kimmich and Aleksander Pavlovic made a combined 24 line-breaking passes in last week’s fixture, more than the four PSG midfielders who appeared in the match combined.
Indeed, it was the only time this season that a midfielder playing against PSG has made more line-breaking passes than Vitinha (7) in the match, with both Kimmich (14) and Pavlovic (10) doing so.
Will Kvaratskhelia continue his run?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:40 , Mike JonesSince the last 16 stage was introduced in 2003-04, Kvaratskhelia is just the fourth player to score or assist in six consecutive Champions League knockout appearances in one season, after Kaka in 2006-07 for Milan, Edin Dzeko in 2017-18 for Roma and Ousmane Dembélé in 2024-25 for PSG.
None of those did it in seven in a row.
Amongst the greats
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:35 , Mike JonesKhvicha Kvaratskhelia has been involved in 15 goals in the Champions League this season (10 goals, 5 assists), a record by a Paris SG player in one campaign.
He's scored seven knockout stage goals, with only three players scoring more in a season for any club – Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013-14 (8) and 2016-17 (10), Lionel Messi in 2011-12 (8) and Karim Benzema in 2021-22 (10).
PSG's worrying away record
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:30 , Mike JonesPSG have lost more away games against Bayern Munich (5) than against any other opponent in the European Cup/Champions League.
Of teams they have faced more than once away from home across the two competitions, only against Manchester City (100% - 3/3) and Real Madrid (75% - 3/4) do they have a higher loss percentage than at Bayern (71% - 5/7).
Not great signs for the German club
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:25 , Mike JonesAlthough Bayern Munich have overturned a first leg deficit four times out of 16 previous ties in the Champions League (since 1992-93), they’ve been in the last 16 stage (three times) and quarter-finals (once).
They’ve lost the first leg in five previous semi-finals and been eliminated each time.
Can Bayern progress?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:20 , Mike JonesIn Champions League history, only one team has ever scored five goals in a knockout match and then been eliminated in that tie, which was Manchester City against Monaco in the last 16 in 2016-17.
Will the teams break a scoring record tonight?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:15 , Mike JonesPSG 5-4 Bayern Munich in the first leg was the highest scoring European Cup semi-final match since Eintracht Frankfurt beat Rangers 6-3 in 1959-60.
Across both legs, in major European competition the most goals in any semi-final was in that Frankfurt – Rangers tie (16), which ended 12-4 on aggregate to the German side.
The fans believe we can do it
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:10 , Mike JonesMore from Kompany who added: "There's a good relationship between this team and the fans.
“At the start of the season, maybe not many believed we'd still have a chance to reach the final - but now we're here, we've experienced many special moments.
“And I think the fans believe we can do it. We want to make it a memorable moment."
What can the fans expect tonight?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:05 , Mike Jones"Can people expect the same game as last week?” asked Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany.
“It will always depend on both teams. If one decides to take a step back and defend more, then there could be some calmer phases in the game.
“Otherwise, there won't be. It's difficult to imagine that either team will change what brought them here in the first place.
“We're playing at home, we want to win and will do everything to achieve that."
Vincent Kompany vows not to change his approach in second leg after Bayern Munich’s epic clash with PSG
Wednesday 6 May 2026 19:00 , Mike JonesBayern Munich are already gearing up for a monumental Champions League semi-final second leg against holders PSG after losing Tuesday’s first leg 5-4 in an epic match that set a new record for goals in a last-four encounter.
The German giants took an early lead, but found themselves battling back from a 5-2 deficit in France, before ultimately narrowing the gap with two crucial second-half goals in a nine-goal spectacle.
Kompany vows not to change his approach in second leg against PSG
PSG line-up to face Bayern
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:52 , Mike JonesPSG XI: Safonov; Zaire-Emery, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, Joao Neves; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia
🔥❤️💙#FCBPSG | #UCL pic.twitter.com/rx1jqapnC9
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) May 6, 2026
Bayern Munich team to take on PSG
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:51 , Mike JonesBayern Munich XI: Neuer; Stanisic, Upamecano, Tah, Laimer; Kimmich, Pavlovic; Olise, Musiala, Luis Diaz; Kane
𝙊𝙪𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙧𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩! 👊 pic.twitter.com/WLVya5Mupz
— FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) May 6, 2026
PSG's advantage means nothing says Enrique
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:42 , Mike Jones"When you play this type of match, against this opponent who is undoubtedly the strongest team we have ever faced, the first thing I want to convey is that we have a one-goal advantage, but that means nothing in football,” Luis Enrique continued.
“We have the experience from last year. We are always looking to live up to the expectations of our supporters."
Playing Bayern is motivation for PSG
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:36 , Mike Jones“We're going to play in Munich and we will look to be more competitive than ever,” said PSG manager Luis Enrique.
“Rafa Nadal once said that at one point in his career, his matches against [Roger] Federer and [Novak] Djokovic were the best motivation for him. That's what we want.
“We admire Bayern, but it's a motivation to be better.
“We're going to try to overcome a team that plays sensationally."
Harry Kane believes Bayern ‘could have killed the game off’ despite defeat to PSG
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:30 , Mike JonesHarry Kane says that Bayern Munich could have “killed the game off” despite losing 5-4 to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their blockbuster Champions League semi-final tie.
Kane scored the first of nine goals when he converted an early penalty for Bayern but the reigning champions responded through Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Joao Neves to take the lead. Michael Olise equalised but a controversial penalty was awarded to PSG for handball and Ousmane Dembele sent the hosts into the half-time break 3-2 ahead.
Harry Kane believes Bayern ‘could have killed the game off’ despite defeat to PSG
Bayern's record against PSG
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:24 , Mike JonesBayern have won seven of their last nine games against PSG.
That run includes a 1-0 triumph in the 2020 Champions League final in Lisbon thanks to a goal from former PSG winger Kingsley Coman.
Will Bayern break Parisian hearts once again?
Will Luis Diaz be Bayern's biggest threat?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:18 , Mike JonesLuis Diaz scored twice at the Parc des Princes in November to help Bayern to a 2-1 victory, despite the Colombian also collecting a red card in first-half added time.
He then scored against in last week’s 5-4 defeat at the same ground but will he be the same threat tonight?
Bayern Munich vs PSG
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:12 , Mike JonesThis is the sixth season in the last nine in which the two teams have met in the Champions League.
PSG's first-leg victory ended Bayern's five-match winning streak in the fixture but Bayern have won five of their seven home matches against the French champions.
PSG looking to impose themselves on Bayern
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:06 , Mike JonesParis Saint-Germain midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery says his team will look to impose their style of play onto Bayern Munich and try to win the game this evening.
"We're going to try to impose our game, to press like we do in every match and to win back the ball as much as possible,” he revealed.
“This team is made to attack and that's what we're going to try to do.”
The Arsenal blueprint that ground down Atletico Madrid – and could take them to Champions League glory
Wednesday 6 May 2026 18:00 , Mike JonesAfter admirably digging in, Arsenal now rise to the greatest stage. A season that has been characterised by such angst and toil may yet finish with jubilation and ascension – twice over.
You could see from the final whistle this meant everything, as players punched the air in joy. The Premier League trophy and European Cup are both now within touching distance.
The Arsenal blueprint that could take them to Champions League glory
Can Bayern get a boost from the atmosphere
Wednesday 6 May 2026 17:54 , Mike JonesMikel Arteta and Declan Rice spoke about how important the Arsenal fans were to them winning the semi-final against Atletico at the Emirates yesterday.
With this encounter played in Munich can Bayern be boosted by a similar atmosphere?
"We definitely notice when everything is red,” Jonathan Tah said.
“What I feel most is this special atmosphere. Against Real Madrid, we felt the support from the moment we went out to warm up.
“We felt it was different. That's an extreme push, you can't underestimate what it's like when the whole stadium is behind us."
Bayern won't change style of play
Wednesday 6 May 2026 17:48 , Mike JonesTah also addressed whether the fans could expect at similar game when the teams meet this evening.
"Generally speaking, our style of play has brought us to where we are now, it makes no sense for us to change anything about it,” he explained.
“We want to play attractive and attacking football. Of course, it's demanding, but that's our style of play and we won't change it.
“When I walk the dog outside, everyone talks to me about the game vs Paris. Everyone in Munich is ready and excited for this huge occasion."
It was a game of high individual quality
Wednesday 6 May 2026 17:42 , Mike JonesBayern Munich defender Jonathan Tah has been reflecting on the entertaining first leg and says it was a game he’d never experienced before.
"The first leg against Paris was the kind of game I had never experienced before in my life,” Tah explained.
“It was a game of extremely high individual quality. Now this return is also going to be a lot of fun.
“Our second-half performance is the reason why we have confidence we can win."
The PSG and Bayern Munich lesson that the Premier League must take
Wednesday 6 May 2026 17:36 , Miguel DelaneyHaving put out a team to do that, Luis Enrique perhaps put it best.
“You have to congratulate the opponents, the players,” the Paris Saint-Germain coach said after his side’s raucous 5-4 win over Bayern Munich. “I’ve never seen a game with that rhythm before.”
You could say this first leg was unique, given how it set a record for a Champions League semi-final, but there’s somehow more to come. There was even the promise of more to come, as befitting the attacking attitudes that drove this entire spectacle.
What happened in the first leg?
Wednesday 6 May 2026 17:30 , Mike JonesThe first leg of this Champions League semi-final was played at the Parc des Princes in Paris and will go down as one of the best matches of the season.
Harry Kane opened the scoring for the visitors by converting a 17th minute penalty before Khvicha Kvaratskhelia equalised and Joao Neves sent the hosts ahead.
Michael Olise made the score level at 2-2 but Ousmane Dembele slotted home from the spot as PSG led 3-2 at the half-time break.
The French side started quickly after the restart with goals from Kvaratskhelia and Dembele but Bayern managed to cut the deficit from three to one with Dayot Upamencano and Luis Diaz chipping in to leave the tie balanced at 5-4 in favour of PSG.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
