In Leverkusen, Germany, Harry Kane finds himself edging closer to achieving his dream of winning the Champions League. His team, Bayern Munich, recently demonstrated their formidability with an emphatic victory over their German counterparts, Bayer Leverkusen.
“Bayern’s 5-0 aggregate win against this team underlines the strength we possess,” Kane shared with a broadcaster following their 2-0 victory in the second leg. With this triumph marking his 10th Champions League goal this season, Kane expressed optimism as Bayern heads into the quarterfinals.
While discussing Bayern’s current position, Kane highlighted the significance of advancing and experiencing success in such high stakes matches, emphasizing: “Reaching the quarterfinals with Bayern is exactly where we’re meant to be. Playing against domestic rivals comes with its own pressure and intensity, which makes these victories all the more enjoyable.”
He further explained that although they had a solid lead from the first leg, the intention was to maintain aggression and control by keeping Leverkusen off balance from the onset: “We knew in the second half they’d try to change things up, and that’s when we capitalized on our opportunities.”
Looking forward, Bayern Munich’s challenge continues in the Champions League with their next match against Inter Milan.
Kane commented on the upcoming clash, saying: “It’s sure to be a challenging game. San Siro is a tough venue, yet regardless of the team, we know our potential to cause trouble.”
Kane’s career, defined by individual success but lacking in team accolades, holds promise this season with Bayern on their path in both the Bundesliga, where they lead by eight points, and the Champions League.
The mastermind steering Kane and Bayern is coach Vincent Kompany. The Belgian tactician wasn’t the initial choice for Bayern’s managerial post the previous year but has shown impressive results without succumbing to the hype.
Kompany expressed restrained optimism following their victory over Leverkusen: “I refuse to get carried away with hype, that’s just not my style.” He also lauded Kane’s dedication and energy, noting, “Having a top player like Kane, who plays with the enthusiasm and work ethic of a young athlete, only elevates the team’s performance.”
Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen is feeling the pressure, particularly after a grueling schedule last season. The added strain from the Champions League seems to be impacting Xabi Alonso’s team. Earlier, Leverkusen’s Bundesliga ambitions took a hit following back-to-back losses, and further compounded by midfielder Florian Wirtz’s injury, which sidelines him for several weeks.
In the recent matchup, Alonso opted for tactical adjustments by focusing on long balls and featuring Patrik Schick. However, the Czech striker’s main contribution was an unexpected assist to Kane as Leverkusen struggled offensively, not registering a shot on target until late in the match.
Adding to their woes, defender Mario Hermoso left the field with a shoulder injury and required hospital assessment. Alonso stated that the team is awaiting further clarification on Hermoso’s condition.