Kane’s brace helps Bayern dominate Leverkusen, Barcelona & Liverpool secure crucial wins

KATHMANDU: Bayern Munich strengthened their chances of reaching the Champions League quarter-finals with a commanding 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, thanks to a brace from Harry Kane.

The Bavarians took an early lead in the 9th minute when Michael Olise’s cross found Kane, who headed home the opener. The first half ended 1-0 in favor of Bayern.

In the 54th minute, Leverkusen goalkeeper Kovar spilled a Joshua Kimmich cross, allowing Jamal Musiala to score with ease, doubling Bayern’s lead.

Leverkusen’s hopes of a comeback faded further when Nordi Mukiele was sent off in the 62nd minute after receiving a second yellow card.

Shortly after, Edmond Tapsoba fouled Kane inside the penalty box, and after a VAR review, referee Michael Oliver awarded a penalty. Kane converted confidently, sealing Bayern’s 3-0 victory with his 31st goal of the season.

The second leg will take place at BayArena on March 11.

Barcelona, Liverpool, and Inter Secure Crucial Wins

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Barcelona managed a narrow 1-0 win over Benfica, with Raphinha scoring the decisive goal.

Meanwhile, Liverpool edged past Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) 1-0 in their round-of-16 first leg. Harvey Elliott, who replaced Mohamed Salah, scored with his first touch, capitalizing on a brilliant assist from Darwin Núñez just three minutes before full-time.

In another match, Inter Milan defeated Feyenoord 2-0, securing a crucial advantage heading into the second leg.