Historic Champions League semifinals ranked as PSG and Bayern Munich tie dominates analysis
A retrospective review places the Paris fixture at the top of the all-time list, comparing its intensity to dramatic encounters involving AS Roma, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid
CBS Sports has released a retrospective ranking of the most memorable UEFA Champions League semifinals, evaluating the current tie between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich against historic fixtures. The analysis suggests that the first leg of the current PSG versus Bayern Munich tie, which featured nine goals and significant drama, stands as a potential standout match of the season. This performance is being positioned as a candidate to top the all-time list of European club football's greatest semifinal encounters.
The current PSG versus Bayern Munich semifinal first leg is highlighted as producing nine goals in 90 minutes, described as one of the best matches of recent years. CBS Sports argues that while the second leg in Munich was thrilling, the Paris fixture's intensity and goal tally give it a unique place in history, potentially surpassing other legendary ties. The sheer volume of scoring combined with constant twists has created a narrative that rivals the most iconic moments in the tournament's modern era.
Other notable ties are cited for their incredible comebacks and dramatic finishes. The 2017-18 AS Roma versus Liverpool semifinal is noted for a dramatic 4-2 second-leg victory over Liverpool in Rome, though the Italian side ultimately lost the tie. This match followed an unexpected 3-0 win at the Stadio Olimpico against Barcelona in the quarterfinals, showcasing a campaign defined by resilience and high-scoring encounters.
The 2022-23 Inter Milan versus Barcelona tie is also featured prominently in the ranking. This fixture included a 3-3 draw in Barcelona followed by a stoppage-time equaliser from Francesco Acerbi to force extra time. Inter Milan eventually won on goals in the second leg to reach their first final since 2010, a result that cemented the tie as one of the most emotionally charged in recent memory.
The 2022 Real Madrid versus Manchester City tie is described as another astonishing comeback that defined a chapter in Champions League history. Real Madrid staged a recovery from a 4-3 first-leg deficit, with Rodrygo scoring twice in the dying moments of the second leg to force extra time. Karim Benzema subsequently converted the deciding goal for a 3–1 win, ensuring the Spanish side reached the final.
The 2018-19 Barcelona versus Liverpool tie is mentioned for a miraculous 4-0 comeback at Anfield, aided by the now-abolished away goals rule. Liverpool overturned a 3-0 first-leg deficit to reach the final, where they were later defeated by Tottenham. Additionally, the 2018-19 Ajax versus Tottenham semifinal is recalled for a stunning hat-trick from Lucas Moura and a 96th-minute winner from Tottenham that denied Ajax a place in the final.
The retrospective concludes that while the 2022-23 Inter Milan tie and the 2022 Real Madrid comeback are among the most memorable of recent years, the current PSG versus Bayern Munich first leg may have surpassed them. The nine-goal spectacle in Paris is viewed as producing unprecedented drama and intensity, securing a unique position in the history of the competition.
