Bayern Munich preserved their undefeated Champions League record by securing a solid 2-0 triumph against Atletico Madrid, continuing their strong beginning to the tournament. Lennart Karl broke the deadlock after halftime, and Konrad Laimer then sealed the outcome with a forceful strike.
Harry Kane had a disappointing night in front of goal, failing to take the chance to equal Cristiano Ronaldo’s Champions League scoring milestone. Nevertheless, Bayern had plenty of quality to claim another crucial win, with Manuel Neuer barely tested by the opposition.
Lennart Karl gives Bayern Munich the lead
Karl struggled during the opening half but redeemed himself nine minutes after the restart, breaking the deadlock for Bayern with a sharp finish. The 18-year-old took advantage of an error from Robin le Normand, dispossessing the Atletico defender before calmly chipping the ball over Jan Oblak.
It was a cool finish from the youngster, who transformed a poor first period into a significant contribution to Bayern’s win.
Konrad Laimer extends Bayern’s advantage
Bayern doubled their lead through Laimer, who produced a spectacular finish after being picked out in space by Kane. The midfielder struck a powerful effort that beat Oblak and went in off the underside of the crossbar.
The goal gave the away side a comfortable margin and left Atletico facing an uphill battle to find a way back into the match.
Harry Kane falls short of Champions League scoring record
Kane came into his first European outing since claiming the Ballon d’Or with a chance to create more history. The England captain had found the net in each of his last 10 appearances in the competition and required one more goal to match Ronaldo’s record for the longest Champions League scoring run.
However, Atletico succeeded in keeping him off the scoresheet. Kane sent an acrobatic attempt wide before firing another low effort off target, missing the opportunity to prolong his impressive streak.
Bayern still created chances to increase their lead, with Oblak making an excellent save to tip a deflected Upamecano effort onto the crossbar.
Bayern preserves unbeaten Champions League record
At the other end, Neuer had a relatively uneventful evening, with Atletico managing only one shot on target. The German goalkeeper was seldom called upon as Bayern dictated play and maintained their two-goal cushion.
Bayern will resume their Champions League campaign against Lille on Wednesday, 25 November. Atletico Madrid are set to take on Norwegian champions Viking on the same evening.