Bayern Munich took a huge step toward the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals with a resounding 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in their all-German last-16 tie. It was a statement performance from the Bavarians, marking their first win against Leverkusen since Xabi Alonso took charge of Die Werkself.
After a disappointing 0-0 draw in the Bundesliga just weeks ago, many expected another tight contest. However, Bayern approached this game with renewed urgency and ruthless efficiency, leaving Leverkusen with a mountain to climb in the second leg.
Kane Breaks His Goal Drought in Style
Bayern wasted no time in asserting dominance, taking the lead inside nine minutes. A pinpoint cross from Michael Olise found Harry Kane, who made a clever run in front of Nordi Mukiele and buried his finish. This goal ended Kane’s five-match goal drought, his longest since joining Bayern.
Leverkusen had an opportunity to equalize when Dayot Upamecano’s complacency gifted Jeremie Frimpong a one-on-one chance with Manuel Neuer. But the Bayern goalkeeper showed his class, keeping his clean sheet intact.
From there, it was all Bayern. Jamal Musiala struck the bar from close range, while Kingsley Coman and Joshua Kimmich both tested Matěj Kovář with long-range strikes.
Second-Half Collapses Seals Leverkusen’s Fate
Leverkusen were fortunate to go into halftime only 1-0 down, but their luck ran out quickly in the second half. Joshua Kimmich floated a seemingly harmless ball into the box, only for Kovář to misjudge it completely. The loose ball fell kindly for Musiala, who tapped in to double Bayern’s lead.
Things went from bad to worse for Leverkusen as Mukiele saw red after receiving a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Coman. The dismissal left Leverkusen exposed, and Bayern capitalized.
Minutes later, Edmond Tapsoba fouled Kane inside the box, giving the England captain a golden opportunity from the penalty spot. Kane confidently slotted his 17th Champions League goal since moving to Bavaria, more than any other player in that timeframe.
With a 3-0 lead and a man advantage, Bayern controlled the remainder of the game, allowing Leverkusen no way back.
Bayern’s Advantage Going into the Second Leg
With a 10-match unbeaten streak, Bayern Munich will be brimming with confidence ahead of the second leg. Leverkusen, on the other hand, faces a huge challenge. They must overturn a three-goal deficit – something they last achieved against Bayern in a 3-0 win at the BayArena a year ago.
If Alonso’s men can learn from their selection mistakes and produce a more disciplined display, they may still stand a chance. However, Bayern’s dominance, experience, and Kane’s goal-scoring form make them clear favorites to progress.
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Final Thoughts
Bayern Munich proved once again why they are a European powerhouse, completely outclassing Leverkusen in this first-leg encounter. The tie may not be over yet, but Leverkusen will need a miracle comeback to stand a chance. With the return leg promising another thrilling showdown, football fans will be eagerly waiting to see if Alonso’s men can fight back or if Bayern will complete the job in style.
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