Champions League: Kane scores on return as Bayern Munich stun Real Madrid 2-1 in first-leg victory

Harry Kane marked his return from injury with a brilliant second-half strike as Bayern Munich claimed a crucial Champions League quarter-final first-leg win over Real Madrid at the Bernabéu.

Kane—watched from the stands by England head coach Thomas Tuchel—was back in action after a minor injury that kept him out of the international friendly against Japan and Bayern’s Bundesliga clash with Freiburg.

The 32-year-old England captain had a quiet first half but played a key role in the buildup to the opener, setting up former Liverpool forward Luis Díaz, who finished calmly four minutes before the break.

Moments into the second half, Kane showcased his trademark precision with a low right-footed effort into the bottom corner—an unstoppable strike beyond Real goalkeeper Andriy Lunin.

Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer delivered a vintage performance, producing four excellent saves, including three to deny Kylian Mbappé. Manager Vincent Kompany’s side could have extended their lead in what was an electrifying contest.

In a match reported by the BBC, with frustration building in the stands, Real turned to Jude Bellingham, who was introduced after an hour and delivered a dynamic cameo as the hosts mounted a push for an equaliser.

Real’s breakthrough came in the 74th minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold—who had endured a shaky defensive display—produced a sublime low cross that Mbappé converted at the far post.

Real pressed aggressively late on, but Bayern held firm to take a slender advantage back to the Allianz Arena for the second leg.

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