Champions League: Kane’s double fires Bayern Munich past 10-man Leverkusen

Bayern Munich took a commanding step toward the Champions League quarterfinals as a Harry Kane brace secured a dominant victory over Bayer Leverkusen in their last-16 first-leg encounter.

Kane set the tone early, heading in Michael Olise’s precise cross to give Bayern the lead within nine minutes. Jamal Musiala then capitalized on a costly error from Leverkusen goalkeeper Matej Kovar, doubling the advantage just after halftime.

Leverkusen’s hopes of a comeback faded when Nordi Mukiele received a second yellow card, reducing the visitors to 10 men. Moments later, Kane was brought down in the box by Edmond Tapsoba, and after a VAR review, he calmly converted the penalty—his 31st goal of the season—sealing Bayern’s emphatic win.

Despite a shaky moment when Dayot Upamecano’s misjudged backpass nearly gifted Jeremie Frimpong a goal, Bayern’s captain Manuel Neuer pulled off a crucial save to maintain the lead.

Kane’s latest feat further cements his place in history. His nine goals in this Champions League campaign equal the most scored by an English player in a single season, tying Dennis Viollet’s 1956-57 record for Manchester United.

He also ranks third among English players in Champions League knockout-stage goals, trailing only Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney.

Speaking after the match, Kane emphasized Bayern’s ambition: “This is the Champions League, the biggest game of all. We’re here to send a message, not just to everyone, but to ourselves.”

Bayern now head into the second leg with a significant advantage, while Leverkusen faces an uphill battle to overturn the deficit.