Imagine scoring two stunning goals in a Champions League match only to be sent off before halftime. That's exactly what happened to Bayern Munich's Luis Díaz in their clash against PSG, and it's a moment that has the football world buzzing. But here's where it gets controversial... Was the red card justified, or did the VAR review go too far? Let's dive into the drama.
In a thrilling first half at the Parc des Princes, Díaz, a £65.5 million summer signing from Liverpool, looked unstoppable. The Colombian international netted twice, putting Bayern Munich 2-0 ahead against the reigning Champions League titleholders. Fans were already hailing him as the man of the match. And this is the part most people miss... Just before halftime, Díaz's night took a dramatic turn when he was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on PSG's Achraf Hakimi. The tackle, initially deemed worthy of a yellow card by Italian referee Maurizio Mariani, was reviewed by VAR officials. After a lengthy delay, Mariani was sent to the pitchside monitor and ultimately upgraded the decision to a red card.
This marked the first time in Champions League history that a player scored two goals and received a red card in the same half. Despite Díaz's dismissal, Bayern held on to win 2-1, extending their winning streak to 16 matches and handing PSG their first defeat in four group games. PSG's woes were compounded by the loss of Hakimi to injury and the early substitution of Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, who limped off after just 25 minutes with a recurring hamstring issue.
PSG did manage to pull one back in the 74th minute through midfielder João Neves, who slid in to convert Lee Kang-in's cross. However, it wasn't enough to salvage a draw. Here's the burning question... Did Díaz's red card ruin what could have been a historic performance, or was it a fair call? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. One thing's for sure: this match will go down as one of the most talked-about fixtures of the season.
