With 18 points from seven matches, Bayern stands second in their group, trailing only top-ranked Arsenal, who have 21 points. The German representatives are five points clear of the eight teams currently ranked sixth to 13th (including PSG, Newcastle, Chelsea, Barca, Sporting Lisbon, Man City, Atletico Madrid, and Atalanta), guaranteeing a top 8 finish and a spot in the round of 16.
However, before celebrating their advancement, Bayern had a less than ideal start to the match. Despite being favored and having home advantage, their play lacked cohesion with the ball, and final passes were often inaccurate.
In contrast, Union SG began the match more steadily. The team, ranked 30th out of 36, took risks, confidently built attacks, controlled space, and created chances. In the 28th minute, Promise Akinpelu nearly headed in the opening goal for the Belgian side, thwarted only by a good save from goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
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Harry Kane (number 9) opened the scoring in Bayern's 2-0 victory over Union SG in their seventh Champions League group stage match on the evening of 21/1. *Photo: Reuters* |
After a first half lacking creativity, Bayern approached the second half differently. They pressed relentlessly and found early success. In the 51st minute, Kane headed in the opening goal from a corner kick delivered by Michael Olise.
Two minutes later, goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen fouled Kane inside the penalty area. The English forward converted the resulting penalty himself, completing his brace and sealing the 2-0 victory.
With a two-goal lead, Bayern shifted into a more relaxed mode. However, this changed quickly when Kim Min Jae received his second yellow card in the 62nd minute. Despite being reduced to 10 men against 11, the German side responded positively, playing with focus, controlling possession, and defending well. Even with a numerical advantage, Union SG posed almost no threat to Bayern.
In the 79th minute, the referee awarded Bayern another penalty after Rade Obrenovic handled the ball in the box. However, Kane missed the chance for a hat-trick, hitting the crossbar with his shot.
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Bayern secured early advancement with a 2-0 victory over Union SG in their seventh Champions League group stage match on the evening of 21/1. *Photo: Reuters* |
With his two goals in this match, Kane increased his tally for the 2025-26 Champions League season to seven goals, placing him second in the Golden Boot race. Kylian Mbappe still leads with 11 goals.
With 18 points after seven matches, Bayern became the second team to directly qualify for the round of 16. Arsenal secured the first spot by winning all seven of their matches. The final matchday on 28/1 will determine the remaining six direct qualification spots. Subsequently, teams ranked ninth to 24th will compete in playoff matches for eight additional spots.
Thanh Quy
