By Harry Kane announced his arrival on the Bayern Munich Champions League stage with a spectacular four-goal performance, leading the German giants to a 9-2 demolition of Dinamo Zagreb in their group stage opener on Wednesday night.
The 31-year-old English striker, making his European debut for Bayern, was the catalyst in the team’s 17th consecutive Champions League campaign opener at the Allianz Arena. Kane’s clinical finishing and overall play underscored the impact he’s made since his high-profile summer transfer.
Bayern wasted no time asserting their dominance against the less experienced Croatian champions. The deadlock was broken in the 19th minute when Kane converted from the penalty spot, his third successful spot-kick of the season. The penalty was awarded after a VAR review overturned an offside call on Serge Gnabry’s disallowed goal, pulling play back for a foul in the build-up.
Vincent Kompany’s side doubled their lead with a goal of breathtaking quality. Gnabry’s lofted pass from deep found Jamal Musiala, who cushioned the ball with his chest for Raphael Guerreiro to sweep home from the edge of the box, showcasing Bayern’s fluid attacking prowess.
The first-half onslaught continued as Michael Olise, fresh from opening his Bundesliga account at the weekend, nodded in Joshua Kimmich’s delivery for his maiden Champions League goal, sending Bayern into the break with a comfortable 3-0 lead.
The second half began with an unexpected twist as Manuel Neuer, forced off due to a heavy landing near the center circle earlier, was replaced by Sven Ulreich. Dinamo Zagreb, seizing on this change, mounted a brief but spirited comeback. Bruno Petkovic turned home Marko Pjaca’s deft flick, followed swiftly by Takuya Ogiwara slotting through Ulreich’s legs, cutting Bayern’s lead to 3-2 and momentarily silencing the Allianz Arena.
Bayern’s response was emphatic, spearheaded by the irrepressible Kane. The England captain tapped in two rebounds in quick succession, though the second was chalked off for offside. Undeterred, Bayern added their fifth moments later when Ivan Nevistic’s rush off his line allowed Musiala to set up Olise for an easy finish.
Kane then took center stage, converting two penalties to complete his four-goal haul, putting the result beyond doubt. Late goals from substitutes Leroy Sane and Leon Goretzka capped off the scoring fest, bringing Bayern’s tally to an astonishing nine.
Bayern coach Vincent Kompany lauded Kane’s performance: “Harry exemplified tonight why he’s considered one of the world’s premier strikers. His spatial awareness and finishing were simply extraordinary.”
Kane, reflecting on his memorable night, said: “To start my Champions League journey with Bayern in this manner is a dream come true. The team’s overall performance was incredible, and I’m thrilled to have played my part.”
The resounding victory extends Bayern’s impressive European home record, with only one defeat in their last 26 Champions League matches at the Allianz Arena. For Dinamo Zagreb, despite the heavy defeat, they will look to regroup as they aim to add to their three previous wins in Europe’s premier competition when they host Monaco next month.
As Bayern Munich prepare for their next Champions League fixture away to Manchester United, this performance serves as a stark warning to their European rivals. With Kane in such prolific form, the German champions have laid down a significant marker in their quest for continental glory.
Man of the Match: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
