Bayern Munich advanced to the last eight of the Champions League with a commanding performance against Bayer Leverkusen, as Harry Kane etched his name into history with a record-breaking goal.
Kane sets new English record
The England striker found the net early in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive error to score from close range. His goal, his tenth in the competition this season, is the highest ever by an English player in a single Champions League campaign.
Bayern had already established a comfortable lead in the first leg, having won 3-0 at home. In the return fixture, they maintained control and rarely looked troubled despite an energetic start from their opponents.
Leverkusen, managed by Xabi Alonso, tried to impose themselves in the opening half, with Michael Olise and Kingsley Coman both going close. However, they lacked the cutting edge required to turn the tie in their favor.
Leverkusen struggles to make impact
The hosts needed to be aggressive after the break, yet it was Bayern who delivered the decisive blow. Joshua Kimmich’s free-kick was only half-cleared by Patrik Schick, allowing Kane to finish from a few yards out and put the tie beyond reach.
Missing their playmaker Florian Wirtz due to an ankle ligament injury, Leverkusen struggled to create clear-cut chances. Despite their efforts, they failed to register a shot on target until the 65th minute, when Jeremie Frimpong forced Jonas Urbig into action, followed by Schick heading straight at the Bayern goalkeeper.
As Leverkusen pushed forward in desperation, gaps opened up in their defense. Bayern capitalized on this when Alphonso Davies slotted home a Kane cross in the 71st minute to seal the win. Kane came close to adding a third but fired wide before rattling the crossbar, while Jamal Musiala also struck the post late on.
With this victory, Bayern set up a quarter-final meeting with Inter Milan, who progressed at the expense of Feyenoord. The first leg is scheduled for early April, with the return fixture the following week.
Bayern emerging as contenders
Despite a rocky start to the season, Bayern now look like genuine contenders for the Champions League crown.
Under Vincent Kompany’s leadership, the team initially struggled in Europe, losing to Aston Villa and Barcelona before suffering a 3-0 defeat at Feyenoord. They narrowly overcame Celtic in the play-offs to reach the knockout stage.
However, their recent form has been dominant. Sitting eight points clear at the top of the Bundesliga, Bayern comfortably dispatched Leverkusen without needing to be at their best, securing their 35th quarter-final appearance in the competition – just four behind Real Madrid’s all-time record.
While defensive concerns remain, particularly with Manuel Neuer sidelined due to a calf injury, Bayern’s attacking prowess is undeniable. Kane has been prolific, scoring 32 goals in 36 appearances across all competitions, making him a strong contender for the tournament’s top scorer.
Musiala was a standout performer, excelling in a playmaking role, while Olise and Coman provided width and creativity. Leon Goretzka continued his resurgence in midfield, further strengthening Bayern’s core.
Reflecting on the victory, Kane said, “To win 5-0 on aggregate against a team like this shows our quality and progress. We managed the game well, created the better chances, and knew the match would open up in the second half. This win boosts our confidence.”
With potential semi-final opponents including Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, or Lille, Bayern will be optimistic about their chances of reaching the final, which will be played at their own Allianz Arena. A return to European glory now seems within reach.
