Review of the First Champions League Semifinal Matches: Two Completely Different Games That Will Be Decided in the Second Leg

April 30, 2026

TL;DR

PSG beat Bayern Munich 5-4 in the first Champions League semifinal, a game described as a goal-fest with open play.
Atletico Madrid and Arsenal drew 1-1 in the other semifinal, a match highlighted by tactical depth and coaching battles.
PSG coach Luis Enrique called the match against Bayern an "exceptional game" with incredible intensity and stated his team needs at least three goals in the second leg.
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany believes his team still has a chance despite the loss, emphasizing the need for a full stadium in the return leg.
Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone felt his team was better than Arsenal in the second half, while Antoine Griezmann expressed regret for not scoring in his last home Champions League game.
Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta criticized a referee's decision to overturn a penalty call, deeming it "completely unacceptable," but remains proud of his team's performance.
The first leg results leave both ties open for the second legs, with PSG needing to defend a narrow lead and Arsenal and Atletico looking to secure home advantage.

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