BERLIN, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- Bayern Munich opened their Champions League campaign with a statement 3-1 victory over FIFA Club World Cup holders Chelsea at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, with Harry Kane scoring twice.
Chelsea settled quickest, pressing high and testing the German champions early. Enzo Fernandez forced Konrad Laimer into a crucial block after just seven minutes, setting the tone for a competitive start. But Bayern struck first in opportunistic fashion. After a drop-ball near the penalty area, Joshua Kimmich switched play wide to Michael Olise, whose cross was turned into his own net by Trevoh Chalobah in the 21st minute.
Six minutes later, Bayern doubled their advantage. Kane spun away from Moises Caicedo inside the box and was brought down, prompting the referee to award a penalty. The England captain calmly converted, sending Robert Sanchez the wrong way for 2-0.
Chelsea responded immediately through Cole Palmer, who combined with Malo Gusto before firing into the top corner to halve the deficit in the 29th minute. The first half then swung from end to end, with Dayot Upamecano blocking a Joao Pedro effort and Bayern's Olise and Laimer both narrowly missing the target.
After the break, Bayern coach Vincent Kompany was forced into changes due to an injury to Josip Stanisic, but his side soon regained control. Olise went close following a slick move before a misplaced back-pass from Gusto gifted Kane the chance to extend the lead. The striker made no mistake, slotting home his second of the night in the 63rd minute.
The hosts managed the closing stages with composure, limiting Chelsea's attacking threat. Palmer thought he had pulled one back in the 89th minute, but his effort was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Bayern held firm to secure three points and continue their perfect start to the season in all competitions.
"It was a big result for us and a top performance from the whole team. Facing the Club World Cup champions is never easy, but we're delighted with the outcome. We worked hard for each other, created the right angles, and kept finding opportunities," Kane said. ■