Bayern Munich's Franziska Kett scored but was sent off for pulling hair as the German side drew 1-1 with Barcelona in the first leg of their Women's Champions League semifinal on Saturday.
Match Summary
Kett canceled out Ewa Pajor's early strike with a well-worked team goal in the 69th minute, but her afternoon turned sour when she was shown a red card in the 79th minute. The incident occurred when Kett grabbed Barcelona substitute Salma Paralluelo by the hair as the Spanish winger attempted to break away.
Referee Ivana Martinčić initially missed the foul but issued the red card after a VAR check. Bayern coach José Barcala was also sent off for protesting the decision.
First Half Action
The match pitted two newly crowned domestic champions against each other. Barcelona, the reigning European champions, took the lead in the eighth minute through Pajor, who volleyed home from Esmee Brugts' cross. Brugts easily cut inside Giulia Gwinn to deliver the assist.
Despite conceding early, Bayern grew into the game. Kett forced a good save from Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll just before halftime.
Second Half Drama
After the break, Barcelona regained control and Brugts struck the post. However, Bayern equalized against the run of play in the 69th minute when Kett finished a flowing team move.
The tie remains finely poised after Kett's dismissal, with Bayern holding on for a crucial draw. The second leg will take place at Barcelona's Estadi Johan Cruyff on May 3.
Other Semifinal and Final Details
Trophy-holder Arsenal face eight-time champion Lyon in the other semifinal on Sunday. The final will be held in Oslo on May 23. Barcelona are bidding to reach the final for the sixth consecutive year.
