Desiré Doué and Dembélé Fire PSG Past Bayern into Semi-Finals

Paris Saint Germain delivered one of the most dramatic performances of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup so far, defeating Bayern Munchen 2–0 in a fiery quarter-final clash in Atlanta. Reduced to nine men and facing mounting pressure from the German giants, PSG stood tall, scoring twice late in the game to book a blockbuster semi-final place aginst the winner between Dortmund and Real Madrid

First Half: Even Start, Shocking Injury

The match began with high intensity, with both sides exchanging possession and probing for openings. But in the final moments of the first half, disaster struck for Bayern Munich. Star midfielder Jamal Musiala suffered a suspected broken ankle following a heavy collision with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Musiala was stretchered off in visible pain, and the injury could sideline him for months.

That incident changed the tone of the match. Bayern seemed emotionally unsettled, while PSG began the second half with greater urgency and structure.

Doué Breaks the Deadlock

With the game hanging in the balance, 19-year-old Desiré Doue produced a moment of brilliance in the 78th minute. Intercepting a poor pass from H. Kane, Doué played a slick one-two with João Neves before calmly sliding the ball into the bottom corner from outside the box. It was a defining moment for the youngster, who became PSG’s youngest-ever goal scorer in a major knockout fixture.

Late Drama: Red Cards and Dembélé’s Decisive Blow

PSG’s night was far from straightforward. Just four minutes after taking the lead, defender Pacho received a straight red card for a reckless tackle. Then, in the sixth minute of stoppage time, Lucas Hernández was sent off for an elbow to the face of Raphael Guerreiro.

Down to nine men, PSG could have crumbled—but they didn’t. Instead, they struck again. Ousmane Dembélé finished off a swift counter-attack after Achraf Hakimi burst down the flank and delivered a pinpoint pass into the box. Dembélé's goal secured the win and ignited celebrations on the PSG bench.

Luis Enrique’s Gritty Side

This result was a tactical triumph for Luis Enrique. PSG were organized, disciplined, and composed—even after the two red cards. The Spanish manager opted to rotate his squad, resting Kylian Mbappé and leaning on his younger stars. His gamble paid off. João Neves controlled the midfield, Doué showed his quality, and the backline remained composed under pressure.

The 2–0 scoreline did not reflect the full chaos of the match, but it perfectly captured PSG’s fighting spirit and tactical maturity.

Bayern Exit with Questions

For Bayern Munich, the defeat ends their Club World Cup hopes. The loss of Musiala is a huge blow, and veteran Thomas Müller may have played his final game for the club, with his contract expiring this summer. Despite moments of promise, Bayern lacked composure in key areas and failed to capitalize on PSG's numerical disadvantage.

Next: PSG vs Real Madrid

PSG now advance to face Real Madrid in a semi-final showdown that promises fireworks. With both clubs aiming to stamp their authority on the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup, the stage is set for one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament.