A Major Career Milestone for Marquinhos
Paris Saint-Germain defender Marquinhos has reached a significant career milestone by playing his 120th match in the UEFA Champions League. This achievement allows him to equal the record set by legendary Brazilian Roberto Carlos, who also appeared in 120 games in this elite competition while playing for Real Madrid and Fenerbahçe. For context, this record highlights the longevity and consistency required to perform at the highest level of European club football over more than a decade.
Champions League Match Records
In a thrilling Champions League semifinal between PSG and Bayern Munich that ended 5–4, the two sides set a new record for the most goals scored in a semifinal match, with nine total goals. The previous record was seven. The first half alone saw five goals, while four more were added after the break. Goals for PSG were scored by:
- forward Kvaratskhelia
- midfielder Neves
- forward Dembélé (penalty)
Bayern’s scorers were:
- forward Kane (penalty)
- midfielder Olise
- center-back Upamecano
- winger Díaz
Marquinhos made his Champions League debut in the 2013/14 season and has played exclusively for PSG since then. He won the Champions League trophy in the previous campaign and has appeared in 13 matches in this season’s tournament, scoring two goals. Across all competitions this season, he has played 28 matches.
What’s next for PSG and Bayern? PSG will prepare for a Ligue 1 match against Lorient on May 2, where they hold a six-point lead over Lens in the standings. Both teams have four games left, including a head-to-head meeting. Bayern, meanwhile, will face Heidenheim in the German Bundesliga on May 2.
“This event underscores Marquinhos’ importance to the PSG squad and his contribution to the team’s success on the international stage.” — Source unknown
Notably, Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer tied the German league record for most titles, securing his 13th championship, matching Thomas Müller’s tally.
The new record for the highest number of goals in a Champions League semifinal highlights the growing competitiveness of the tournament and the high level of play displayed by the teams. The upcoming matches for PSG and Bayern will be crucial not only for achieving domestic goals but also for advancing further in European competitions.
In light of this record-breaking match, fans can delve deeper into the thrilling details of how PSG managed to secure their place in the final, as they faced off against Bayern in a historic semifinal that shattered previous scoring records. For a comprehensive analysis of this nine-goal showdown, check out our coverage of the Champions League semifinal excitement.