Bayern Munich Draws 1-1 with Barcelona in Women's CL Semifinal

MUNICH, Germany (AP) Bayern Munich secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Barcelona in the first leg of their Women's Champions League semifinal on Saturday, despite the late dismissal of goalscorer Franziska Kett for pulling an opponent's hair.

The match at the Allianz Arena pitted two newly crowned domestic champions against each other, with Bayern of Germany facing the Spanish powerhouse Barcelona. Barcelona struck first in the eighth minute, capitalizing on their initial shot on target. Esmee Brugts cut inside Bayern captain Giulia Gwinn before delivering a precise cross for Ewa Pajor to volley home, marking her eighth goal in the competition this season and tying her with Alessia Russo for the top spot.

Bayern, who had suffered a 7-1 defeat to Barcelona earlier in the league phase, gradually found their rhythm despite the early setback. Kett tested Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll with a strong effort before halftime, keeping her team in contention. After the interval, Barcelona nearly doubled their lead when Brugts struck the post, and Patri Guijarro saw a header cleared off the line in the 60th minute as the visitors reasserted dominance.

The home side responded with...