In a Champions League night that had absolutely everything, Bayern Munich survived a dramatic finale to secure a 3-3 draw against Paris Saint-Germain after Liverpool loanee Luis Diaz experienced the ultimate game of two halves at the Parc des Princes.
Diaz Delivers Then Disappears
The Colombian international was the central figure in a match that swung violently from one extreme to another. Diaz announced his arrival in Paris with a first-half masterclass, netting twice to seemingly put Bayern in control.
His opening strike came after 28 minutes, finishing clinically from close range after PSG failed to clear their lines. The second, just before half-time, was a moment of pure individual brilliance as he cut inside and unleashed an unstoppable drive into the top corner.
Game Turns on Controversial Red Card
The match turned completely on its head in the 67th minute when Diaz, already on a yellow card, received his marching orders for a second bookable offence after a late challenge on Achraf Hakimi.
The decision sparked furious protests from Bayern players, with manager Thomas Tuchel visibly incensed on the touchline. The dismissal completely altered the complexion of the game, handing momentum firmly to the French champions.
PSG Mount Furious Comeback
Kylian Mbappé, relatively quiet until that point, sprang into life against the ten men. The French superstar pulled one back with a trademark curling effort in the 74th minute before setting up substitute Bradley Barcola for the equaliser just six minutes later.
As PSG poured forward in search of a winner, Bayern's defence faced wave after wave of attack. Manuel Neuer produced two spectacular saves in stoppage time to deny what would have been a remarkable comeback victory for the home side.
Tuchel's Tactical Battle
The Bayern manager was forced into a complete reshuffle after the red card, sacrificing attacking threat for defensive stability. The German's decision to bring on an extra centre-back ultimately proved crucial as his team weathered the storm in the closing stages.
"We showed incredible character after the red card," Tuchel told reporters after the match. "To come here and get a point with ten men for the final twenty minutes is a testament to the spirit in this team."
What This Means for Both Sides
The result leaves both teams in a strong position to qualify from Group A, though Bayern will be wondering what might have been had they kept eleven men on the pitch. For PSG, it represents another case of what could have been after dominating large periods but failing to secure all three points.
Elsewhere in the Champions League, there were victories for Manchester City and Real Madrid, but the night undoubtedly belonged to the drama unfolding in Paris where one man's brilliance and subsequent dismissal created a European classic that will live long in the memory.
