Heated controversy in the PSG vs Bayern Munich match

Luis Diaz’s rough challenge in the PSG vs Bayern Munich match forced Achraf Hakimi off the pitch in tears and ignited fierce controversy.

The high-profile clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich at Parc des Princes became the center of controversy when Luis Diaz was sent off for a tackle that seriously injured Achraf Hakimi. The incident happened just before halftime, after the Colombian had scored twice to put Bayern ahead 2-0.

Hakimi, PSG’s right-back and captain of Morocco, was celebrating his 27th birthday when Diaz charged at him from behind during a ball contest. His ankle got trapped under the opponent’s foot, causing him to writhe in pain and cry on the pitch. Referee Maurizio Mariani initially showed a yellow card but after reviewing VAR, he upgraded it to a direct red card for Luis Diaz.

According to footage from TNT Sports, the severity of the tackle led the broadcaster to decide against replaying the clip. Host Matt Smith explained that due to “the seriousness of the potential injury,” they chose not to show the video again.

Former footballer Joe Cole commented: “It was unnecessary in that area of the pitch. A bloody challenge. Whenever you come in from behind, your body weight presses down on Hakimi’s ankle. I just hope it’s a ligament injury and not a fracture. He probably won’t play before Christmas. It looks really bad.”

Hakimi’s injury puts the Morocco national team in a difficult position ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) starting on December 21. As captain and defensive cornerstone of the host nation, many fans worry the 27-year-old defender might miss the tournament on home soil. Meanwhile, PSG also suffered a blow as Ousmane Dembele had to leave early due to a recurring hamstring injury.

Social media reactions further intensified the situation. One comment read: “This is one of the most reckless tackles I’ve ever seen. Luis Diaz might have ended Hakimi’s season and possibly his peak career.” Another user expressed: “That was a really ugly challenge, but I believe Diaz didn’t intend to hurt. Without the injury, the yellow card probably would have stood.”

There were also harsher opinions: “It was a scissor tackle from behind, no contact with the ball, just aimed at the leg. A red card was absolutely deserved.”

For Bayern, losing Diaz to suspension complicates their upcoming match against Arsenal at the Emirates on November 26. Hakimi was taken for immediate medical assessment after the game, with no official statement yet on the injury’s extent, but his agonizing reaction has left Moroccan fans deeply concerned.

The aftermath of the Diaz-Hakimi incident not only silenced the Parc des Princes crowd but also raised serious questions about the fine line between aggression and danger in modern football.

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