Champions League 2025-2026: Bayern Munich-PSG, the likely lineups

Following Arsenal’s success yesterday, defending champions PSG take on Bayern Munich tonight at 9 p.m. in the stadium that, only a year ago, saw them triumph against Inter Milan. The Bavarians are called upon to overturn the first leg result to snatch a pass to the final in Budapest, with Kompany seeking redemption after last season’s quarterfinal elimination. The Parisians would need only a draw to return to the final act, but they will have to deal with the heavy absence of Hakimi, stopped by an injury in the very first leg. After the spectacular 5-4 draw in the first leg semifinal, expectations around this challenge are high, as it is an inside or outside match: any mistake would prove fatal in the race to the Champions League final.

Kompany is banking on a solid defense led by Neuer in goal, protected by the Upamecano-Tah pair, with Stanisic and Laimer on the flanks. In the midfield, Kimmich and Pavlovic give balance and quality to get the action going, but the real danger is on the three-quarter where the imagination of Musiala, Olise and Luis Diaz will provide support for Harry Kane to try to overturn the result.

Luis Enrique is banking on a quick eleven with no offensive landmarks. With Safonov between the posts, the defense is led by Marquinhos and Pacho, with Zaire-Emery replacing the injured Hakimi. The midfield relies entirely on the quality of Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha and Joao Neves, while in attack acts the trident composed of Dembélé in the center, with Doué and Kvaratskhelia ready to strike on the flanks.

The likely lineups

Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Stanisic, Upamecano, Tah, Laimer; Pavlovic, Kimmich; Olise, Musiala, Luis Diaz; Kane. All. Kompany.

PSG (4-3-3): Safonov; Zaire-Emery, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, Joao Neves; Doué, Dembélé, Kvaratskhelia. All. Luis Enrique.