by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- Bayern Munich's players gathered for a late dinner at their upscale Paris hotel, still processing a 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain that CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen said "felt like a final" in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League.

"Wow," Dreesen said repeatedly, praising a team spirit "I have never seen before. Every single one fought for all."

The match left its mark: a breathtaking first half featuring two goals from Luis Diaz and a red card for the Colombian striker, followed by a defensive battle after halftime.

Gradually, the team recovered from a physically punishing 90 minutes that made headlines across Europe.

Spanish newspaper Marca described Bayern coach Vincent Kompany as having created a "steamroller" - a destructive machine that can also endure pressure.

On German television, 2014 World Cup champion Mats Hummels spoke of a "new dimension" in football. Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich described the extraordinary effort required.

"I looked up at the arena clock after 25 minutes thinking, 'I am already completely worn out and close to faint,'" Kimmich said.

After the final whistle, Bayern's players and Kompany danced in front of their supporters after gathering in a circle to show their unity.

The 30-year-old Kimmich called it a "special graduation" and "the most intense first half of my career."

Defender Jonathan Tah spoke of a "unique mentality, taking all that comes in a game, no matter what, against a top side."

"Suffer together, defend together, go through that hell together," Tah added.

Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer noted the team was prepared for playing a man down, a scenario they often practice.

"We often practice eight against ten and were prepared for situations like that," Neuer said.

Despite the victory, Kimmich immediately looked ahead to Bayern's next match against Premier League side Arsenal on Nov. 26.

"We stay hungry for more. The next games are waiting," the German international said.

Sporting director Max Eberl said Diaz waited anxiously in the locker room to congratulate his teammates after his foul on Achraf Hakimi. Kompany expressed concern for Hakimi's well-being.

"We are sorry about his injury and hope he is returning as quickly as possible," Kompany said. ■