Bayern Munich began their Champions League campaign with a 3-1 victory over Chelsea at the Allianz Arena, with Harry Kane once again proving decisive on a night where the English striker punished familiar Premier League opposition.
The hosts took the lead after 20 minutes when Michael Olise’s low cross forced Trevoh Chalobah into an own goal.
Just five minutes later, Bayern doubled their advantage as Kane coolly converted from the spot after being brought down by Moisés Caicedo.
Chelsea looked rattled, but Cole Palmer gave them a lifeline almost immediately, racing forward in a swift counter before exchanging passes with Malo Gusto and slotting past Manuel Neuer.
Palmer’s strike, his 73rd goal involvement in 100 appearances for Chelsea, briefly lifted Enzo Maresca’s side, but their defensive lapses kept them exposed. Bayern dominated after the break, with Robert Sánchez denying Kane and Luis Díaz, but the pressure told in the 63rd minute when Gusto’s misplaced pass allowed Kane to pounce.
The England captain turned sharply and drilled home his second, sealing the result and moving to 42 Champions League goals overtaking Sergio Agüero in the all-time rankings.
For Bayern, it was a confident opening statement, while Chelsea were left to reflect on costly mistakes in their European return.