Franziska Kett went from hero to villain as Bayern Munich fought back to ensure they will travel to Barcelona for the decisive leg of their Women’s Champions League semi-final all square.
Kett cancelled out Ewa Pajor’s first-half opener at the Allianz Arena, but was then shown a red card for pulling Salma Paralluelo’s hair as a hard-fought first leg ended 1-1 with Bayern having to survive a late onslaught.
Barca were ahead with just eight minutes on the clock when Pajor met Esmee Brugts’ cross with a deft touch to guide the ball past keeper Ena Mahmutovic, although it took a fine save from Cata Coll to keep out Kett’s curling attempt three minutes before the break.
Brugts was denied a second for the visitors by a post and Patri Guijarro had a header cleared off the goal-line before Claudia Pina’s follow-up was saved, but the hosts were back on terms with 69 minutes gone when Kett beat Cata Coll.
Kett’s evening ended in disgrace with 11 minutes remaining and Mahmutovic had to be at her best to repel Mapi Leon’s piledriver at the end.
Defending champions Arsenal face eight-time winners Lyon in Sunday’s semi-final.
PA
