It was sheer determination that Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting put into this jump. The FC Bayern striker beat the muscular PSG defender Presnel Kimpembe in a challenge to open the scoring with a header. After a brief cry of joy, Choupo-Moting grabbed the ball and took it back to the centre spot – to get the comeback going again as soon as possible.
Even though the winner in Paris was not enough to take FCB through to the next round, it does emphasise the important qualities of the 32-year-old FC Bayern forward. After his goal in the first leg, Choupo-Moting scored against his former club in the second leg as well – for the third Champions League game in succession. "We really value Choupo. He's worked well for the team in recent matches and scored goals," said Hansi Flick after the game in Paris about his striker, who has done a good job of replacing injured top goalscorer Robert Lewandowski.
In addition to his tireless commitment to the team and his nose for a goal, the FCB coach also highlighted Choup-Moting's positive approach that is very significant in terms of the cohesion of the team: "He's an important factor and is very popular. I'm very happy he’s in our team because, in addition to being a great player, he's also a great person."
Bayern's battling performance goes unrewarded in Paris:
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