Kane Double Helps Bayern Overcome Chelsea 3-1 in Champions League Opener

Bayern Munich made an emphatic start to their 2025-26 Champions League campaign, defeating Chelsea 3-1 at home thanks to a brace from Harry Kane. The match, played under bright European lights, exposed defensive frailties in Chelsea’s young squad, while Bayern showed both ruthlessness and poise when it mattered.

Key Moments & Scorers

• Own Goal Opens the Scoring: The opener came in the 20th minute when Michael Olise’s dangerous cross forced a forced error; Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah under pressure from Dayot Upamecano inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.
• Kane from the Spot: Seven minutes later, Kane was fouled in the box and coolly converted the penalty, making it 2-0 for Bayern.
• Chelsea Response: Chelsea pulled one back almost immediately. Cole Palmer, two minutes after the penalty, finished off a swift counterattacking move to cut the deficit to 2-1 just before half-time.
• Kane Seals It: In the second half, in the 63rd minute, Kane took advantage of sloppy defending from Chelsea to fire home a low finish and restore Bayern’s two-goal cushion, which they held to the end.

Observations & Implications

• Kane’s Record Deepens: Kane becoming one of the few players to score 20+ Champions League goals for two different clubs — Tottenham and Bayern — underscores his consistency on Europe’s biggest stage.
• Defensive Issues for Chelsea: The own goal and the careless passing in their own half that led to Bayern’s third goal pointed to Chelsea’s defensive inexperience. Much of their good work going forward was undone by lapses at the back.
• Bayern’s Momentum & Mentality: This match demonstrated Bayern’s ability to start fast and control the game, particularly in European competition. Their continued unbeaten run across competitions and a perfect record in Champions League openers (22 in a row) adds psychological weight.

What Next

• For Bayern: They’ll want to build on this strong showing as the group stage progresses, focusing on tightening up defensively while maintaining their attacking threat. Kane’s form will be crucial.
• For Chelsea: Lessons must be learned — from handling pressure, strengthening their defence, and improving composure at critical moments. The performance offered glimpses of promise, but also showed areas that need immediate attention.