Goal king Kane sends Bayern into last 16

FC Bayern showed class and spirit in their 2-1 win against Galatasaray in UEFA Champions League Group A. Harry Kane epitomised a determined team performance with two late goals that ensure Bayern march into the round of 16 as section winners, with two games to spare.

Neuer: Kane is a phenomenon

"It was a deserved win," said Man of the Match Kane, who swelled his tally to 10 goals and five assists across his last five outings alone. "They defended well, but we kept the tempo high. It's nice, and I'm enjoying it. I love to score goals and win. It was a great night."

"We can really rely on him," added captain Manuel Neuer, back in Champions League action for the first time since October 2022. "He's a phenomenon, and we're proud he plays for our team."

Neuer's contribution merits equal credit. Making his fourth appearance after almost a year on the sidelines, the 37-year-old was his usual cool and commanding self. And when called upon in a dicey one-on-one with the score goalless, he made opposition striker Mauro Icardi wilt.

Although Neuer was beaten by a last-gasp Cédric Bakambu goal, and the overall performance lacked the pizzazz of the recent 4-0 rout of Borussia Dortmund, the positives far outweighed the negatives. This team can win, even when not at their best - the true mark of champions.

Tuchel: Happy with energy and control

Minjae Kim, Joshua Kimmich & Co. also played their part in a well-oiled display. Bayern had to bide their time, but their innate willpower was eventually rewarded against the dogged Turkish visitors. "We took the chances that we had," said head coach Thomas Tuchel. "I was happy with the energy and control."

Into the knockouts as group winners

The final result wasn't only a fourth straight win in this season's group stage, but a place in the knockout rounds. The Group A winners do it all again in their final home game in the section, when Copenhagen come to town on 29 November.

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