Harry Kane scored twice as Bayern Munich continued their perfect start to the 2025/26 season with a commanding 3-1 victory over Chelsea in their UEFA Champions League opener. The win gave Vincent Kompany’s side a measure of revenge after Chelsea’s memorable 2012 UCL final triumph at the same venue.
Returning to Europe’s top stage, Chelsea started brightly, with Malo Gusto and Cole Palmer linking up effectively on the right flank to create problems for the hosts. However, Bayern, unbeaten in 16 successive UCL home matches prior to a quarter-final loss to Inter last season, soon found their rhythm. The pressure paid off when Michael Olise’s teasing cross led to an unfortunate own goal from Trevoh Chalobah.
Bayern’s dominance continued as Kane was fouled in the box by Moises Caicedo, earning a penalty. The English striker stepped up and coolly slotted home his 24th goal from 25 attempts from the spot for Bayern. Just as it seemed Bayern had a healthy advantage, Chelsea pulled one back. Palmer, receiving the ball on the halfway line, drove forward and played a quick one-two with Gusto before stroking a brilliant shot into the top corner.
Chelsea carried their momentum into the second half but couldn’t capitalize. Bayern regained control, and despite two brilliant saves from Robert Sanchez to deny Kane and Olise, the Spanish goalkeeper was helpless when Kane pounced on a loose pass from Gusto to find the bottom corner and secure his brace.
Late substitutions from Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca failed to turn the tide. The Blues’ luck was exemplified when Palmer was ruled marginally offside after a touch on Andrey Santos’ pass, nullifying what would have been a second goal for the visitors. The victory continues Bayern’s 100% record this season and gives Kompany hope for a deeper run in the UCL.
