Harry Kane’s brace helped Bayern Munich secure a commanding 3-0 victory over 10-man Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at the Allianz Arena. The win marked a significant turnaround for Bayern, who had failed to defeat Leverkusen in six previous attempts since Xabi Alonso took charge in October 2022.
Kane opened the scoring in the ninth minute with a precise header from a Michael Olise cross. Leverkusen’s hopes dwindled further when goalkeeper Matej Kovar fumbled a routine Joshua Kimmich cross, allowing Jamal Musiala to tap in Bayern’s second goal early in the second half. Leverkusen’s woes deepened when defender Nordi Mukiele was sent off for a second yellow card, and Kane converted a penalty after Edmond Tapsoba fouled him in the box.
The victory puts Bayern in a strong position to advance to the quarter-finals, keeping alive their dream of reaching the final in Munich. Leverkusen, last season’s undefeated Bundesliga champions, struggled to create chances and failed to test Bayern’s backup goalkeeper Jonas Urbig, who replaced the injured Manuel Neuer late in the game.
Kane, who ended a four-game goal drought, praised his team’s focus and intensity, while Leverkusen’s Granit Xhaka lamented the “unnecessary goals” that cost his side. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany remained cautious, calling it “only half-time” and emphasizing the need to stay focused for the second leg.
Leverkusen, who had eliminated Bayern from the German Cup earlier this season, now face an uphill battle to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
