Paris Saint-Germain defeated Bayern Munich 5-4 in a breathtaking UEFA Champions League semifinal first leg on Tuesday, producing nine goals and what many are calling the most thrilling knockout match in recent memory.

Harry Kane opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 17th minute, but PSG equalized seven minutes later through Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's curling effort. Joao Neves headed PSG ahead in the 33rd minute from a corner.

Bayern leveled again in the 41st minute via Michael Olise, but Ousmane Dembele converted a penalty just before halftime to make it 3-2. The second half saw Kvaratskhelia score his second in the 56th minute, followed by Dembele's second two minutes later for a 5-2 lead.

Bayern fought back with goals from Dayot Upamecano (65') and Luis Diaz (68'), but PSG held on for a 5-4 victory. The match featured end-to-end action, with both teams creating numerous chances.

Football legend Thierry Henry described the game as "pure cinema" on CBS Sports, saying, "Rest in peace to anyone who missed this game." He praised the attacking quality of both sides, calling them "the most exciting teams in Europe."

PSG coach Luis Enrique joked he was exhausted despite not running, while defender Marquinhos said he was "living the dream." Bayern's Harry Kane acknowledged the high level of play and looked ahead to the second leg in Munich.

The return leg will be played next Wednesday at the Allianz Arena, with the winner advancing to the final on May 30 in Hungary.

Source: www.aljazeera.com