Barcelona's women's team drew 1-1 with Bayern Munich in Germany in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, meaning the tie will be decided at the Camp Nou next Sunday, according to El Periódico CA.
Pere Romeu's side dominated much of the match but could only manage a goal from Ewa Pajor. The intense encounter also saw Bayern's Kett and coach Barcala sent off.
The Camp Nou will now host the decider as Barça seeks a sixth consecutive Champions League final. The first leg showed a mature and ambitious performance from both teams, a contrast to Bayern's heavy 7-1 defeat in the group stage of the competition.
Early Lead for Barça
Barça took the initiative from the start, with Ewa Pajor proving particularly incisive. The forward, a long-term target for Barça, opened the scoring before the 10-minute mark. Pajor, known for her lethal instinct in front of goal, has multiplied her potential since joining the Catalan club, consistently finding the net.
Bayern, initially stunned, struggled to get into the game. The German champions needed almost the entire first half to react. When they did, their surge demanded the best from Barça goalkeeper Cata Coll, who made several key saves, including a powerful shot from Kett, to keep her team ahead at half-time.
Bayern Equalise, Red Cards Follow
After the break, the German side found their rhythm, and the match became a fast-paced, forceful contest. Barça created few clear chances before Kett scored the equaliser, finishing a good run by Pernille Harder down the left wing. Coll reacted with frustration, indicating the tie was back to square one.
Kett was a significant player for Bayern, but her game ended prematurely. With ten minutes left, she received a red card for pulling Salma Paralluelo's hair, an action the referee deemed unacceptable. Bayern's coach, José Barcala, was also sent off for protesting the decision. Both will miss the return leg at the Camp Nou.
Despite the numerical advantage, Barça could not find a winning goal. Patri tried an overhead kick, and Mapi León shot from outside the area, but Bayern's goalkeeper Mahmutovic held firm against sustained pressure.
Camp Nou Showdown
In less than a week, Barça will play in front of their home crowd, aiming to secure their place in a sixth consecutive Champions League final. With tickets selling fast and a full stadium expected, the team, led by Alèxia Putellas, will look to make history once again in Europe's top club competition.
