Harry Kane Scores in Bayern Munich Rout as Ballon d'Or

Harry Kane is at the peak of his powers, headlining a dominant Bayern Munich victory in the Champions League while being confirmed as a top contender for the sport's biggest individual prize. The England captain scored in an emphatic 5-0 win over Bodo/Glimt and was named on the 30-man shortlist for the Ballon d'Or, capping a remarkable year where he netted 73 goals and won the Bundesliga.

How did Bayern Munich start their Champions League campaign?

Bayern Munich underlined their status as tournament favorites with a ruthless second-half display against last season's surprise package. After a goalless first half, Jamal Musiala broke the deadlock just two minutes after the restart in his first start since recovering from a neurological condition.

Kane then headed in from a free-kick for Bayern's second goal, his 55th in the Champions League overall. That strike extended his personal scoring streak in the competition to eight consecutive games dating back to January. Alphonso Davies and a double from Michael Olise completed the rout after Bodo/Glimt had a player sent off late on.

Musiala celebrated his emotional return by tapping his head. "The feeling I had today is one I haven't had in a while," he told Prime Video. "I'm happy and I know I still have steps forward to take."

Why is Harry Kane a Ballon d'Or contender?

The striker's nomination for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, announced on Tuesday, September 8, is built on one of the most prolific seasons of his career. France Football magazine revealed the 30-man list, with Kane positioned alongside last year's winner Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappe as a leading candidate.

His case is built on extraordinary output. Kane scored 73 goals combined for Bayern Munich and England during the 2025/26 season, leading his club to the Bundesliga title and his national team to a third-place finish at the World Cup. The winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on October 26.

While the award often favors players who win major continental trophies, Kane's sheer volume of goals and consistent influence make him a formidable nominee. You can track his incredible scoring stats on our [stats](/stats) page.

What was the wider Champions League context?

Matchday one provided several notable storylines beyond Bayern's victory. Manchester United marked their return to the competition after nearly three years with a 4-0 win over debutants Sabah. Newcomers Como also enjoyed a dream start, beating RB Leipzig 3-1 in their first-ever Champions League match.

Off the pitch, Fenerbahce manager Ismail Kartal appeared to announce his shock resignation after a 1-1 draw with Roma, though club president Aziz Yildirim later stated the coach remained in position.

• Harry Kane scored his 55th Champions League goal in Bayern Munich's 5-0 victory over Bodo/Glimt.
• Kane was named on the 30-man shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d'Or after a 73-goal season.
• Jamal Musiala scored on his first start since recovering from a preseason medical issue.
• Bayern's win was part of a strong opening matchday for European giants, with Manchester United also winning 4-0.

With the Bundesliga season underway and the Champions League group stage progressing, Kane's form will be vital for Bayern's ambitions on all fronts. Check our [fixtures](/fixtures) page for their upcoming schedule.