Bayern edges closer despite defeat as Diaz leads fightback against PSG

by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, April 29 (Xinhua) -- Luis Diaz's display drew praise but could not prevent Bayern Munich from slipping to a 5-4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal.

The narrow loss leaves Bayern with work to do ahead of the return leg in Munich on May 6, but the 29-year-old Colombian forward again showed why he is known as "Lucho," or "the Fighter."

Diaz's goal kept Bayern in contention and brought the team's attacking trio to 100 goals across all competitions this season, with Harry Kane scoring 54, Michael Olise 20 and Diaz 26.

According to data supplier Opta, that tally is well clear of rivals, with Real Madrid's trio of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Federico Valverde combining for 69 goals.

"He mirrors the character of our team, which never gives up," Bayern board member Max Eberl said.

Since joining from Liverpool for 45 million euros in 2025, Diaz has emerged as a decisive figure in key moments, including goals in the German Cup semifinal against Leverkusen and in the Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid.

Coach Vincent Kompany has found a way to maximize Diaz's impact, making use of his relentless energy and ability to disrupt defenses.

"He is full of energy, no matter how often or how long he plays. He is a machine," Kompany said.

Although Diaz "would never ask for a rest," Kompany has managed his workload carefully, even giving him a short break earlier in the season after a red card against PSG in the group stage and a booking in the Bundesliga.

Diaz has responded with strong performances, and alongside Kane and Olise will again carry Bayern's hopes into the second leg against PSG. Enditem