Kim Min-jae’s Heroics Propel Bayern Munich Past 10-Man PSG in Champions League Showdown

Bayern Munich secured a vital 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in their UEFA Champions League clash at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday night, thanks to a decisive first-half header from Kim Min-jae. This win not only boosted Bayern’s hopes of automatic qualification but also deepened PSG’s woes as they face an uphill battle to progress from the group stage.

Bayern dominated the early proceedings. The home side’s relentless pressing paid off in the 38th minute when Joshua Kimmich’s in-swinging corner was misjudged by PSG goalkeeper Matvei Safonov. Kim Min-jae pounced on the opportunity, powering a close-range header past Safonov to put Bayern ahead. The South Korean defender’s goal proved to be the match-winner, marking a milestone in his first season with the German giants.

The French club’s difficulties were compounded when Ousmane Dembélé received a second yellow card in the 57th minute for a foul on Alphonso Davies. Already booked for dissent in the first half, the winger’s dismissal left PSG with just 10 men for over half an hour. While Safonov made a remarkable save from Jamal Musiala’s shot, tipping it onto the post, PSG failed to find an equalizer.

Bayern continued to push for a second goal but were unable to convert their chances, with Harry Kane particularly subdued. The England striker, who had netted a hat-trick in Bayern’s last Bundesliga match, was largely quiet throughout the game. Kingsley Coman was a persistent threat for the hosts, creating several opportunities and testing Safonov before being substituted in the 72nd minute.

Vincent Kompany, praised his team’s discipline and intensity: “Our pressing in the first half was very good, the discipline was there. On the whole, it was a good performance. We could have scored one or two more goals, which would have made the game a bit calmer.” Leon Goretzka echoed Kompany’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the win. “It was an extremely intense game. We kept going until the end. It’s nice that we got the reward,” said the midfielder.

The result left Bayern Munich in 11th place in the group, with nine points from five matches, just one point shy of the top eight that guarantee automatic progression to the knockout phase. They face Shakhtar Donetsk, Feyenoord, and Slovan Bratislava in their final group fixtures, giving them a strong chance to secure their place in the round of 16.

On the other hand, PSG’s situation is becoming increasingly dire. The Parisians, now in 26th place with just four points, have only one win to show from their campaign—a 2-1 victory over Girona. With three matches remaining, including challenging fixtures against Salzburg, Manchester City, and Stuttgart, Luis Enrique’s side must make a significant turnaround to stay in contention.