Harry Kane's remarkable performance for Bayern Munich continues to raise eyebrows, leaving fans and analysts alike discussing his impact and future. Following Bayern's resounding 3-0 victory over Werder Bremen on Friday night, Kane scored two penalties, bringing his league goal tally to 21 this season, surpassing Alan Shearer's record for the most 20-goal campaigns.
The match at Allianz Arena saw Bayern gain dominance over Bremen, but the first half did not give off such certainty. Both teams were cautious, with the home side methodically pushing forward without any breakthroughs. 'It was all a bit more tense somehow,' noted Max Eberl, Bayern’s sports board member. Yet, as the second half kicked off, Kane wasted no time. Within 30 seconds, he sent a powerful shot crashing against the crossbar, setting the tone for what was to come.
Audacious and relentless, Kane led the charge for Bayern, who had struggled to secure numbers on the scoreboard. The breakthrough arrived when Kane earned the first penalty after being fouled by Bremen's Anthony Jung. Referee Sören pointed to the spot, and Kane coolly slotted home the opener, showing his footballing grit, as he spoke afterwards about the responsibility he feels as the striker to secure easy openings for his team. 'I take the responsibility to make the decision and score the 1-0 to open the game up,' Kane admitted. "I had a few other chances...but still think there’s room for improvement."
With Bayern's lead intact, Leroy Sané scored from close range after neat interplay with teammates, confirming Bayern’s control over the match. Kane capped off the evening with his second penalty, solidifying Bayern's lead over their nearest rival, Bayer Leverkusen. His first goal marked the 14th successful spot-kick of his Bundesliga career, underscoring his reputation as one of the league's best penalty takers. 'I know no-one who converts penalties quite like he does,' praised Bayern President Herbert Hainer.
The victory meant Bayern remain nine points clear at the top of the Bundesliga, dominating the title race. Kane's impact has not only been measured by his goals but also by his all-around play. Coach Vincent Kompany commended Kane's work ethic, noting, 'It's not luck; he works very, very hard on it,' acknowledging both on-field and training performances as fundamental to the striker's success.
Yet, for Kane, the focus remains on self-improvement. The England international, who boasts impressive statistics, including 28 goals across all competitions this season, expressed ambition. 'Throughout the season there will be tight games... we need moments to break through,' he said, demonstrating awareness of the tough road ahead. Bayern faces Celtic next week for the Champions League play-off leg, along with another challenging Bundesliga fixture against Leverkusen.
Despite the hoopla surrounding Kane's unbelievable start at Bayern, whispers of potential transfer speculation loom. His unmatched prowess around the goal puts him on the radar of top clubs, especially after he left Tottenham for Bayern for his ambitions to win significant silverware. With his current form, skepticism about his future may not wane as Bayern continues its challenging path.
On the other hand, Werder Bremen's coach Ole Werner criticized the penalty awarded against his team. 'If this happened to us, we don't get the penalty,' he complained, pointing to the competitive nature of the league where every call could determine the match's outcome. Despite the loss, Bremen remains within reach of European competition, currently sitting eighth on the table.
Looking forward, Bayern will strive to maintain their momentum and confidence as they gear up for their next challenging fixtures. After securing their seventh consecutive win, the team exhibits exceptional quality and determination. 'It's about competing against ourselves, pushing our level, and seeing how far we can take it,' Kane concluded, ready to tackle what lies ahead with Bayern hopeful of more victories.