Kane Brace Punishes Chelsea as Bayern Claim 3-1 Champions League Win
Harry Kane struck twice as Bayern Munich capitalised on Chelsea’s defensive frailties to secure a 3-1 victory in their opening Champions League fixture of the 2025/26 campaign.
The England striker, 32, converted a first-half penalty he had won himself after Moisés Caicedo brought him down, before sealing the win on 63 minutes with a precise curling finish following a misplaced pass by Malo Gusto.
Chelsea’s problems began early when Trevoh Chalobah diverted the ball into his own net after his teammates switched off at a drop-ball situation. The Blues, however, briefly found hope when Cole Palmer, making his 100th appearance for the club, lashed a shot into the top corner to halve the deficit before half-time.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side — back in the Champions League for the first time since 2022/23 — pressed for an equaliser after the restart. Michael Olise and Palmer spurned promising opportunities, while Kane also wasted a chance to extend Bayern’s lead. But Gusto’s costly error gifted the forward his second goal, effectively ending the contest.
Chelsea’s early dominance went unrewarded, with Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández missing clear chances, and Palmer later denied a brace by a tight offside call. In contrast, Bayern’s composure and experience told, as they marked their 22nd consecutive season starting the competition with victory.
Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, 39, made his 151st Champions League appearance — more than Chelsea’s entire 24-man squad combined, who had just 117 between them before kick-off.
There was also late intrigue as Nicolas Jackson, signed by Bayern on loan from Chelsea on deadline day, came off the bench in added time but had little opportunity to make an impact against his parent club.
Chelsea now turn their attention to a home clash with Benfica, a match set to draw huge attention amid the expected appointment of José Mourinho — a potential third spell in charge at Stamford Bridge.
