Bayern: balancing respect and confidence, the Bavarians are already gearing up for the clash with PSG

In the Champions League semi-finals, Bayern Munich will face Paris Saint-Germain. While remaining confident, the Bavarians are wary of the quality of the reigning European champions.

Here we go again… After beating Real Madrid (2-1, 4-3) on Wednesday in the Champions League, Bayern Munich have qualified for the semi-finals, with a clash against Paris Saint-Germain coming up on 28 April and 6 May.

Over the last 12 months, the two sides have already met twice: PSG beat Bayern (2-0) in the Club World Cup last summer, and the German side took their revenge (2-1) in November during the Champions League group stage.

The Munich side are wary…

This fixture, between two of Europe’s best teams since the start of the season, promises to be a thrilling encounter. And as far as Bayern are concerned, there is obviously no question of underestimating the reigning European champions. “In recent years, our matches have always been tight, whether in the Champions League or the Club World Cup,” goalkeeper Manuel Neuer told DAZN. “These two encounters will be no exception.”

That said, the German giants have no intention of feeling inferior. A veritable steamroller in the 2025–2026 season (see article here), Bayern are moving forward with confidence. “PSG have clearly shown this season that they are among the best teams in Europe,” noted striker Harry Kane on beIN Sports. “We’ve already faced them this year and put in an excellent away performance – a really tough game. We feel strong; we feel we can beat anyone when we’re at our best. And that’s what it will take to beat PSG.”

PSG the favourites?

Given the form shown by Bayern and Paris over the last few months, picking a favourite seems tricky. But for his part, Munich boss Jan-Christian Dreesen didn’t hesitate to put the pressure on Luis Enrique’s men. “If there is one favourite for these semi-finals, it is Paris Saint-Germain,” he told the Abendzeitung.

“They beat Liverpool twice in convincing fashion and are the defending champions. We, on the other hand, are among the title contenders,” summarised the Bavarian manager. Against Chelsea (5-2, 3-0) and Liverpool (2-0, 2-0), PSG lived up to that status. But the challenge posed by Bayern is likely to be far tougher…