Bayern Munich took a major step towards the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Round of 16 tie at the Allianz Arena on March 5, 2025. The Bavarians stamped their class by exploiting defensive errors and gaining a crucial win.

Match Highlights:

Early Control: Bayern started on the front foot, and Harry Kane opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a powerful header. Leverkusen struggled to find rhythm against Bayern's high-pressing game.

Defensive Errors: Leverkusen goalkeeper Matej Kovar made a costly mistake, allowing Jamal Musiala double Bayern's advantage before halftime. Defensive mistakes were the visitors' downfall.

Red Card Blow: Nordi Mukiele of Leverkusen received a second yellow card, putting his team down to ten and the comeback all the more difficult.

Kane's Brilliance: English forward sealed his brace with a coolly taken penalty in the 75th minute, his 31st of the campaign, and making the game one that Leverkusen could no longer control.

Post-Match Reactions:

Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany praised the discipline and the implementation of his side and urged them to remain focused for the second game. Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso owned up to his side's faults and demanded a strong response at BayArena.

Looking Ahead:

With a commanding 3-0 lead, Bayern enters the return match confidently, and Leverkusen has it difficult to make their Champions League dreams become a reality. The return game is looking like an interesting affair as Leverkusen fights for survival.