15 memorable UCL semi-final classics

The first leg between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern has added another entry to the long list of Champions League semi-final ties that have shaped the competition over the years, part of the ongoing story of UCL semi-final classics.

From comebacks to individual scoring bursts, the semi-final stage has repeatedly produced matches decided by small margins and late goals.

These are the kind of games that define UCL semi-final classics, where momentum can shift in minutes.

The PSG-Bayern clash now sits alongside ties that have featured dramatic turnarounds, record-breaking nights and decisive individual performances, adding another layer to UCL semi-final classics.

ALSO READ: UCL: PSG beat Bayern 5-4 in nine-goal thriller

Sporting Tribune looks at 15 memorable UCL semi-final classics.

Ajax 5-2 Bayern (1994/95)

The tie started cautiously after a goalless first leg, but Ajax took full control in Amsterdam. Jari Litmanen led the charge as Ajax turned the match into a one-sided affair.

Bayern had no answer as the Dutch side dominated and secured a place in the final with a clear aggregate win.

Bayern 4-3 Dynamo Kyiv (1998/99)

Dynamo Kyiv built a strong position after the first leg, led by Andriy Shevchenko’s goals. Bayern, however, stayed in the tie despite trailing.

The second leg saw Bayern score late to complete the turnaround and edge through on aggregate.

Manchester United 4-3 Juventus (1998/99)

Juventus looked in control early in the second leg after a fast start. Manchester United responded through Roy Keane’s leadership in midfield.

Goals from Dwight Yorke and Andrew Cole completed the comeback and secured United’s place in the final.

Valencia 5-3 Barcelona (1999/2000)

Valencia took command in the first leg with a strong attacking display. Miguel Ángel Angulo scored twice as Barcelona struggled to contain them.

Barcelona pushed in the return leg, but Valencia held on across both matches to progress.

Juventus 4-3 Real Madrid (2002/03)

Juventus established control in the second leg after a tight first match. David Trezeguet and Alessandro Del Piero made the difference.

Real Madrid scored late through Zinédine Zidane, but Juventus held on to advance.

AC Milan 3-3 PSV (2004/05, Milan win on away goals)

Milan looked set after the first leg, but PSV fought back strongly at home. Massimo Ambrosini’s late goal proved crucial in the return.

The tie finished level on aggregate, with Milan progressing on away goals.

Dortmund 4-3 Real Madrid (2012/13)

Robert Lewandowski scored four goals in the first leg to give Dortmund a major advantage. Real Madrid responded in the second leg but could not overturn the deficit.

Karim Benzema and Sergio Ramos scored late, but Dortmund held firm to progress.

Real Madrid 5-0 Bayern (2013/14)

Real Madrid took a narrow lead into the second leg. Bayern needed a response at home but were overwhelmed.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s goals led a dominant performance as Madrid won comfortably in Munich.

Liverpool 7-6 Roma (2017/18)

Liverpool built a strong first-leg lead with multiple goals at Anfield. Roma responded strongly in the return.

Despite Roma’s pressure, Liverpool held on across both legs to reach the final.

Liverpool 4-3 Barcelona (2018/19)

Barcelona controlled the first leg and took a three-goal lead. Liverpool produced a response at Anfield.

Divock Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum helped complete the turnaround.

Tottenham 3-3 Ajax (2018/19, Tottenham win on away goals)

Ajax led for much of the tie after strong performances across both legs. Tottenham stayed alive through Lucas Moura.

His hat-trick in the second leg secured progression on away goals.

Manchester City 6-5 Real Madrid (2021/22)

Both legs produced goals and momentum swings. Riyad Mahrez and Karim Benzema played key roles in the contest.

Real Madrid forced extra time and completed the comeback late in the second leg.

Real Madrid 4-3 Bayern (2023/24)

Bayern led in the second leg after Alphonso Davies scored. Real Madrid responded late in the match.

Joselu’s late goals turned the tie in Madrid’s favour.

Barcelona 7-6 Inter (2024/25, aet)

Both teams traded leads across the two legs. Barcelona fought back multiple times before extra time.

Inter ultimately edged it through Davide Frattesi’s winner.

PSG 5-4 Bayern (2025/26)

PSG struck early in the first leg, with Bayern responding through Harry Kane. The game swung repeatedly as both sides scored in bursts.

PSG led 5-2 before Bayern scored twice late to stay alive in the tie, setting up a decisive second leg.