Kane explodes as Bayern secure Champions League knockout spot

Bayern book last-16 place at Allianz Arena

Harry Kane fired Bayern Munich into the Champions League round of 16 with a ruthless second-half double in a 2–0 win over Union Saint-Gilloise at the Allianz Arena. Reduced to 10 men late on, Bayern still had enough to seal qualification and move back into second place in the league-phase table.

After failing to score in his previous three Champions League appearances, Kane struck twice in the space of three minutes to take his tally to 34 goals in 29 matches across all competitions this season. The result marked Bayern’s sixth win in seven European games and extended their unbeaten run to 11 matches in all competitions.

First-half frustration for Bayern

Despite their dominance on paper, Bayern struggled to break down the Belgian visitors before the break. Kane went closest early on when he was denied at close range by goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen after a low cross from Luis Díaz.

Union Saint-Gilloise were far from passive and could have stunned the Allianz Arena. Kevin Mac Allister narrowly missed connecting with a dangerous delivery from Raul Florucz, while Promise David wasted an even better opportunity by heading straight at Manuel Neuer from point-blank range.

Raphaël Guerreiro nodded over from a corner just before half-time, but Bayern headed into the interval frustrated and aware they had been given a warning.

Kane turns the game in minutes

The breakthrough arrived shortly after the restart. In the 52nd minute, Kane rose highest to head home Michael Olise’s corner, finally unlocking a stubborn defence. Three minutes later, the England captain doubled Bayern’s lead, calmly converting from the penalty spot after being brought down by Scherpen.

That quick burst transformed the match and took Kane to seven goals in this season’s Champions League.

Red card drama but Bayern hold firm

Bayern’s task was complicated when Kim Min-Jae was shown a second yellow card in the 63rd minute. Kane was handed the chance to complete his hat trick when another penalty was awarded following a VAR review, but this time his effort struck the post.

Despite playing with 10 men, Bayern saw the game out comfortably. The win lifts them three points behind leaders Arsenal, while Union Saint-Gilloise, suffering their fifth defeat at this stage, are set to miss out on the playoffs.