Chelsea, making their first Champions League appearance in over two years, started brightly under manager Enzo Maresca. The Londoners controlled early phases and looked dangerous through Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernández, but their momentum was halted midway through the first half. Bayern capitalised on a defensive lapse when Serge Gnabry’s cross was inadvertently turned into the net by Trevoh Chalobah, handing the hosts a 1-0 lead in the 20th minute.
Minutes later, Moises Caicedo’s clumsy challenge brought down Harry Kane in the box, and the England captain converted the resulting penalty to make it 2-0 in the 27th minute. Chelsea showed character to respond almost instantly, as Palmer fired into the top corner following a slick one-two with Malo Gusto, trimming the deficit to 2-1 just two minutes later.
The second half saw the visitors press for an equaliser, but Bayern’s experience shone through. Kane put the result beyond doubt in the 63rd minute, finishing clinically after a mistake in the Chelsea defence. Chelsea’s Palmer had another goal ruled out for offside late on, confirming a frustrating night for the young Blues squad.
The result extends Bayern’s remarkable run: they have now won their opening Champions League match for the 22nd season in succession. Chelsea, meanwhile, will take heart from their response and attacking flashes, but must learn quickly if they are to progress from a highly competitive group.
Harry Kane was named man of the match, with his poise and finishing proving decisive. Bayern begin their European adventure with three points, laying down a marker for the campaign ahead.
@vivoscores Kane Double ⚽️⚡️ Sinks Chelsea in Bayern’s Champions League Opener! 🔥 Bayern Munich 🚀 blast past Chelsea 3-1! Harry Kane’s brace ⚽️⚽️, Chalobah’s own goal 😬, Palmer strikes back ⚡️, but Bayern’s unbeaten Champions League run continues! ⭐️🙌 #ChampionsLeague #Bayern #Chelsea
♬ original sound - Vivo Scores
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