Kane Matches Aubameyang Record in Bayern Cup Win
Harry Kane scored a brace to help Bayern Munich begin their DFB-Pokal title defence with a comfortable 4-1 win over second-tier VfL Osnabrück on Wednesday night. The England captain's double extended his remarkable scoring streak in the competition, matching a significant Bundesliga record.
Kane Matches Aubameyang's DFB-Pokal Record
Kane's first goal levelled the score after an early shock for the visitors. His second, a calmly taken penalty in the 86th minute, sealed the victory. That penalty meant Kane has now scored in seven consecutive DFB-Pokal games, equalling the record set by former Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The announcers speculated he was immediately thinking about a hat-trick, but manager Vincent Kompany substituted him moments later.
A Curious Backup Striker Emerges
When the substitution board showed Kane's number nine in the 88th minute, a curious replacement was sent on. With forward Ismael Saibari already removed, right-back Konrad Laimer entered the fray to play as a striker. Laimer, 29, is a versatile Austrian international who previously played as a midfielder for RB Leipzig. Kompany's instruction was clear: use Laimer's energy to press aggressively in the final minutes. This is not seen as a long-term solution, but it highlights the team's immediate focus on preserving their 33-year-old star striker's fitness for the demanding season ahead. Fans will hope this experimental role remains just that.
Bayern's Strong Start to the Season
Bayern Munich entered this cup tie in formidable form. They had already lifted the Franz Beckenbauer Supercup by beating Borussia Dortmund and began their Bundesliga title defence with a commanding 5-1 win over VfB Stuttgart. Key players like Michael Olise, who started alongside Kane against Osnabrück, and Dayot Upamecano have hit the ground running. The comprehensive victory over Osnabrück, despite a brief scare, shows the squad's depth and Kompany's intent to challenge on all fronts.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Harry Kane scored twice in Bayern's 4-1 DFB-Pokal first-round win on September 2, 2026.
- His goals mean he has scored in seven straight DFB-Pokal matches, matching Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's record.
- Utility player Konrad Laimer was used as an unconventional striker substitute for Kane late in the game.
- Bayern, as reigning Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal champions, are heavy favourites to retain their trophies.
| Player | Contribution | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Harry Kane | 2 goals | Scored Bayern's first and fourth goals, including an 86th-minute penalty. |
| Konrad Laimer | Unusual substitution | Replaced Kane as a pressing forward in the 88th minute. |
| VfL Osnabrück | 1 goal | Took a surprise early lead against the champions before being overwhelmed. |