Harry Kane punished Chelsea’s defensive lapses with a brace as Bayern Munich opened their Champions League campaign with a 3-1 win in Germany.
The England striker, 32, converted a first-half penalty after being fouled by Moises Caicedo, before sealing victory with a superb curling finish following Malo Gusto’s costly error midway through the second half.
Trevoh Chalobah had earlier put through his own net after Chelsea switched off at a drop-ball, though Cole Palmer briefly reignited hope on his 100th club appearance with a stunning strike into the top corner.
Chelsea, back in the competition for the first time since 2022-23, threatened through Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez early on, but lacked the composure to capitalise.
Palmer also had a late equaliser ruled out for offside, while missed chances from Michael Olise and Kane highlighted the contest’s fine margins.
In the end, Bayern’s experience told. While Manuel Neuer was marking his 151st Champions League outing, Chelsea’s entire squad had just 117 appearances combined before kick-off.
The Blues now host Benfica next week — a tie set to mark Jose Mourinho’s dramatic return to Stamford Bridge as manager.
