The Champions League second leg between FC Bayern and Paris Saint-Germain promises to be another spectacle – but Bayern legend Bixente Lizarazu warns against exactly that. The World and European Champion sees one crucial point in particular that the Munich side absolutely must improve on compared to the first leg
Lizarazu describes the 4:5 in the first leg as a „wonderful game“ – but with clear reservations: „It wasn’t so fantastic for the defenders and goalkeepers.“
Both teams had shown defensive weaknesses, which were quickly punished by the enormous attacking quality on both sides. At this level in particular, four or five goals conceded were a clear sign that „some things need to be done better“
The big problem: lack of balance
For Lizarazu, the key is not to completely change the attacking approach. On the contrary: „The attacking style of play should not change – that is their greatest strength.“
But this is precisely where the danger lies: if too many players push forward at the same time, large spaces are created behind the defence – spaces that both Bayern and PSG „exploit mercilessly“
A clear warning to FC Bayern
The key message from the Bayern legend is clear: Munich must not take too many risks in the second leg
Despite the deficit from the first leg, it is not necessary to give up the balance completely. „They are so well equipped up front with Olise, Díaz and Kane that they can do it without neglecting their defending,“ Lizarazu emphasized
For the 56-year-old, the duel is a real 50:50 game between „the two best teams in Europe“, which is precisely why little things could make the difference
Better defensive behavior – without sacrificing their own offensive strength – could ultimately be the decisive factor in the battle to reach the final
The Frenchman is particularly enthusiastic about Bayern star Michael Olise, saying that the 24-year-old is currently „his favorite player in the world“
His mixture of technique, creativity and self-confidence make him a difference-maker – and even a candidate for the Ballon d’Or if he confirms his performances in the decisive games
The second leg will once again be played at the highest level, but while it was the offense that shone in the first leg, this time it could be the defense that makes the difference.