FC Bayern Munich defeated Royale Union Saint-Gilloise 2-0, qualifying early for the Champions League round of 16. Harry Kane scored both goals in the second half, despite a missed penalty and a red card for Kim Min-jae. The win secures advantages for Bayern in the knockout phase.
At the Allianz Arena, FC Bayern Munich faced Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in a Champions League league phase match that ended 2-0 (0-0) in favor of the hosts. With six wins from seven games, Bayern secured early qualification for the round of 16. Harry Kane was the matchwinner: He headed in the opener in the 52nd minute from a Michael Olise corner and converted a penalty he won himself into the right corner in the 55th. "We scored at the right time," Kane told DAZN, describing a sloppy first half. Captain Manuel Neuer added: "We didn't start well, but we're very satisfied with how we turned it around."
The first half was low on chances. Bayern were sloppy in possession, while Union defended resiliently. The visitors' best opportunity came from Promise David's header in the 29th minute, which Neuer saved. Jamal Musiala was rested and watched from the bench. After Kane's brace, Kim Min-jae received a red card in the 63rd minute for repeated fouls, leaving Bayern short-handed. Kane later missed a second penalty (81st), and Olise blazed over from close range (84th).
Despite their dominance, Bayern showed mercy and won comfortably. The south stand at the Allianz Arena was empty due to a UEFA pyro ban, excluding over 9,000 fans. Coach Vincent Kompany stressed: "I hope that doesn't happen often; the fans are important to us." Only 66,000 spectators attended. Union Saint-Gilloise, Belgian champions and former bogey team for Kompany's Anderlecht, put up a brave fight: Coach David Hubert had vowed to challenge Bayern.
Second place in the table grants Bayern home advantage in return legs up to a potential semi-final. Their next match is Wednesday at PSV Eindhoven.
