Paris Saint-Germain overcame Bayern Munich 2-0 in a dramatic Club World Cup quarter-final, securing a spot in the semi-finals despite finishing the match with only nine players. The game, held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, was filled with intense moments, controversial decisions, and showcased PSG's resilience.
The first half was marked by cautious play as both teams searched for openings. Gianluigi Donnarumma, PSG's goalkeeper, proved crucial early on, denying a low shot from Bayern's Michael Olise in the 6th minute. Bayern dominated possession but struggled to convert their chances, with Harry Kane missing a close-range header in the 17th minute and Donnarumma thwarting Jamal Musiala in the 41st minute. A header by Bayern's Dayot Upamecano was disallowed due to offside. The first half ended on a sour note when Bayern forward Jamal Musiala suffered a suspected broken ankle after colliding with PSG keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The turning point arrived in the 78th minute when PSG's Desire Doue broke the deadlock, perfectly striking from the edge of the box into the bottom right corner past Manuel Neuer. However, PSG's celebration was short-lived as Willian Pacho received a straight red card in the 83rd minute for a reckless challenge, reducing PSG to ten men. The situation worsened in the 92nd minute when Lucas Hernandez was sent off for a dangerous tackle, leaving PSG with nine players.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, PSG's resolve remained unbroken. In the 97th minute, Ousmane Dembele sealed the victory with a clinical finish inside the box after a swift counter-attack. Bayern were awarded a penalty in the 99th minute, but a VAR review overturned the decision, preserving PSG's clean sheet.
PSG, coached by Luis Enrique, displayed tactical discipline by absorbing Bayern's pressure and striking effectively on the counter. PSG's captain, Marquinhos, praised the team's attitude and desire to complete the task.
Bayern's coach, Vincent Kompany, who received a yellow card for dissent, struggled to adapt after the loss of key players like Musiala.
With this victory, PSG advances to the Club World Cup semi-finals, where they will face either Real Madrid or Borussia Dortmund. The match is scheduled to take place in New Jersey on Wednesday.
