Harry Kane has backed Bayern Munich to progress from their UEFA Champions League semifinal tie against Paris Saint-Germain despite a 5-4 defeat in Tuesday’s first leg.
The two European heavyweights played out an entertaining clash at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday night in arguably the greatest UCL match of the campaign so far.
The game also set a new record for the most goals scored at this stage of the competition, with all to play for in next week’s second leg encounter at the Allianz Arena.
However, Kane believes that Bayern, despite their one-goal deficit will turn the tie around and seal progress into their first final since 2020.
“You saw two high-level teams in attacking play and transition. Overall, we look at their goals, the penalty was harsh but we could have killed the game earlier on,” Kane said.
“We fought and we clawed and we’re back in the tie. I thought there was amazing defending even though there were nine goals. Sometimes the forwards will come out on top but the back line was outstanding today.”
The England forward opened the scoring from the penalty spot, before PSG scored two quick-fire goals to turn the tie around.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Joao Neves both got on the scoresheet to give them a 2-1 lead. Then, Michael Olise equalized once again for Bayern, before Ousmane Dembele scored to give PSG a two-goal lead into the break.
The goal fest continued in the second half, with Dembele and Kvaratskhelia completing their braces, while Dayot Upamecano and Luis Diaz also scored for Bayern to set up a thrilling end to the contest.
“You will always feel there are areas to improve on. We go to the Allianz with nothing to lose, we’re at our best when we’re intense and physical”, Kane added.
“It’ll be who takes their moments next week, with the crowd behind us, we hope that can push us over the line”, he concluded.
The second leg of this UCL classic will hold in Germany next week, with the winner advancing to the final on May 30 in Budapest to face either Arsenal or Atletico Madrid.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
