Champions League doesn't allow Korean players?
Kim Min-jae (30, Bayern Munich) and Lee Kang-in (25, PSG) are likely to find the Champions League a dream stage they never get to step on.
Bayern Munich will face PSG in the second leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League semifinals, held at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, at 4 a.m. on the 7th (Korea time). In the first leg in Paris, after a goal-fest, PSG took the initiative with a 5-4 win.
Nine goals in one match set a new Champions League record for most goals. Despite criticism over defensive frailties, neither team plans to change its approach. If anything, they are signaling a more attacking game.
The Korean derby did not materialize. Kim Min-jae and Lee Kang-in both missed the first leg. The two players were left off the starting lineup and waited on the bench but did not get playing time. Playing for big clubs is remarkable, but they did not get to step onto the dream stage.
The second leg looks likely to be the same. Soccerway projected the starting lineup for the second leg and again excluded Kim Min-jae and Lee Kang-in. The two players may wait on the bench again in the second leg without a guaranteed appearance.
The wildcard for the second leg is also the goal-fest. Both teams possess explosive scoring power. Bayern chose to face it head-on. Manager Vincent Kompany said, "Trying a completely different method is not a good answer" and added, "We must maintain what we've done well so far." He also said, "Since we're playing at home, we will definitely win."
Injury variables are limited. Bayern is expected to be missing only Serge Gnabry. Some injured players have left the door open to a possible return.
PSG will not try to protect a lead and will strike back. PSG midfielder Warren Zaïre-Emery said, "Honestly, we also felt that match was crazy. We play football for matches like that," adding, "The intensity, commitment, the goals — everything was special. We expect the same match, if not more."
PSG must cover the absence of Achraf Hakimi, who was injured in the first leg. Zaïre-Emery is likely to start at right fullback.
Manager Luis Enrique also has no intention of backing down. Although a draw would be enough to advance after the first-leg win, he made clear there are no plans to play defensively. He said, "This is a match between two of Europe's best teams. We always play to win," and emphasized, "Maintaining the team's identity is important."
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