MUNICH — Harry Kane broke his goal drought in outstanding fashion on Wednesday, leading Bayern Munich to a decisive 3-0 victory against Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 matches.
Kane expressed his satisfaction after the game, “We understood the excitement surrounding the match and managed to stay composed. Scoring early was satisfying, and adding a second goal made it even better. We’re already looking forward to the next game.”
Kane’s breakthrough came in the ninth minute with a precise header that found its mark inside the left post, as he outmaneuvered Nordi Mukiele to connect with a cross from Michael Olise.
Demonstrating his considerable worth to the team, Kane hustled across the field, reclaiming possession in his own half and sparking a counterattack that had Olise as the target.
His second goal came from the penalty spot in the 75th minute. The penalty was awarded after Edmond Tapsoba was penalized for holding Kane with both arms, and the English forward capitalized on the opportunity, successfully netting his 30th consecutive penalty.
Tapsoba had been substituted in for Leverkusen after Mukiele was dismissed following a second yellow card for a rash challenge on Kingsley Coman.
Kane had not found the back of the net for Bayern since their narrow 2-1 victory over Celtic in the playoffs on February 2.
“Right from the beginning, I felt that everyone’s focus was at its peak,” Kane noted.
In the Bundesliga this season, the English striker has scored 21 goals in 22 appearances, with nine coming from penalties. His brace against Leverkusen has padded his tally, bringing him to eight and nine Champions League goals.
Additionally, Jamal Musiala contributed to Bayern’s score sheet on Wednesday.
The second leg of this matchup is scheduled to take place in Leverkusen next Tuesday.
Bayern’s coach, Vincent Kompany, remarked, “It’s only halftime. Nothing has been decided yet.”
