Dembele's early strike sends PSG past Bayern 6-5, into Champions League final
Synopsis
PSG's relentless attacking prowess proved decisive once again. Dembele's early strike set the tone, and despite Bayern's late rally through Kane, the defending champions' superior firepower and composure in the final stages secured a second consecutive Champions League final appearance. This is a PSG side intent on repeating their trophy success.
Key Takeaways
Ousmane Dembele scored in the opening minutes to give PSG an early advantage at the Allianz Arena .
PSG defeated Bayern Munich 6-5 on aggregate with a 1-1 draw in the second leg on 7 May .
Defending champions PSG advance to their second consecutive Champions League final .
Manuel Neuer and Matvei Safonov both made crucial saves to keep their sides in contention.
Harry Kane's late goal gave Bayern hope, but PSG held firm to seal qualification.
Ousmane Dembele's clinical finish in the opening minutes propelled defending champions Paris Saint-Germain into the Champions League final on 7 May, as they overcame FC Bayern Munich 6-5 on aggregate following a 1-1 draw at the Allianz Arena in the second leg of their semifinal. PSG, who claimed last season's crown with a dominant display against Inter, extended their aggregate advantage just over two minutes into the contest.
Dembele's decisive moment
Dembele swept Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's precise pass high into the net after the Georgian winger's surging run down the flank. The early breakthrough appeared to have settled the tie in PSG's favour, though Bayern would mount a determined response throughout the evening.
Bayern's resilience
The Bundesliga outfit showed character in their attempts to overturn the deficit. Manuel Neuer's reflexes proved crucial, tipping João Neves' downward header around the post when it appeared destined for the far corner. As the first half progressed, Jamal Musiala's crisp shot forced Matvei Safonov into action, while Jonathan Tah nodded wide from a promising position.
Second-half intensity
PSG began the second period with renewed vigour, with Desire Doue and Kvaratskhelia testing Neuer in quick succession. The contest remained tightly contested, with both teams creating further opportunities. Doue was thwarted by Neuer once more, while Safonov made crucial saves to deny Luis Díaz and Michael Olise.
Bayern's late hope
With the match heading toward a PSG victory, Harry Kane lashed a drive past the Paris goalkeeper after a smart turn, raising Bayern's hopes of a dramatic comeback. However, PSG held firm in the remaining minutes to secure their passage to the final.
Enrique's perspective
PSG manager Luis Enrique praised his side's performance. "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," Enrique said. PSG will now prepare for the final, having proven their mettle against one of Europe's elite sides.
Point of View
Despite their pedigree and late pressure, could not match PSG's intensity or clinical finishing when it mattered. Luis Enrique's side has now proved they are not a one-season wonder — they are building a dynasty. The real test comes in the final itself.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the aggregate score between PSG and Bayern Munich?
PSG defeated Bayern Munich 6-5 on aggregate. The second leg at the Allianz Arena ended in a 1-1 draw on 7 May.
Who scored PSG's goal in the second leg?
Ousmane Dembele scored early in the match, finishing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's precise pass just over two minutes into the contest.
Did Bayern Munich score in the second leg?
Yes, Harry Kane lashed a drive past Matvei Safonov after a smart turn in the second half, scoring Bayern's only goal of the match.
How many Champions League finals has PSG now reached in succession?
PSG has now reached two consecutive Champions League finals. They won last season's final against Inter and advanced to this season's final by eliminating Bayern Munich.
