Bayern Munich – Chelsea: Kane Brace Seals First Champions League Victory (3-1)

One of the most anticipated fixtures of the Champions League first round of the league phase provided an entertaining competition between two well-matched sides. Careless mistakes from the visitors and a brace from Harry Kane sealed a deserved win for Vincent Kompany’s team that has started the season strongly.

Tactical analysis and match report by Fahd Ahmed.

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There were many competitive ties for Champions League supporters to look forward to, but a clash between Bayern Munich and Chelsea particularly stood out. Given their history, especially in the momentous 2012 final that, after a dramatic ending, ended with the Blues being crowned European champions for the first time. Since then, the two heavyweights only clashed in the 2019/20 season where the Bavarians commandingly defeated Chelsea 7-1 over the two legs.

The pair have had positive starts to their respective domestic seasons as they have remained undefeated. Further, after a season in charge for both managers who were hired in the summer of 2024, a crucial year lies ahead as they must evolve tactically to achieve their heightened goals.

Vincent Kompany works with a relatively thin squad that does not usually have many changes from week to week. Additionally, considering that his previously fielded side beat Hamburger 5-0 just a few days ago, it was no surprise to see Kompany using the same team.

Enzo Maresca did not follow the same path as he heavily rotated during the weekend against Brentford. There were four changes made, but these were expected . . .