Bayern Munich secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Celtic in the first leg of their Champions League play-off, thanks to goals from Michael Olise and Harry Kane. Despite late pressure from the hosts, Daizen Maeda’s 79th-minute strike ensured Celtic remain in contention ahead of the return leg in Munich next Tuesday.
Match Recap: How the Action Unfolded
First Half: Bayern Strike Before the Break
Celtic Park was electric at kick-off, and the home side thought they had the perfect start when Nicolas Kuhn found the net inside two minutes. However, celebrations were cut short as the goal was ruled out for offside against Adam Idah in the build-up.
Bayern quickly settled into their rhythm, controlling possession and creating numerous chances. Olise and Leroy Sané both came close, but Joe Hart was equal to their efforts.
As half-time approached, Bayern’s pressure finally paid off. In stoppage time, Olise unleashed a stunning strike from the edge of the box, rifling the ball past Hart to give the visitors a deserved lead going into the break.
Second Half: Kane Doubles Bayern’s Lead
Bayern wasted little time after the restart, and just four minutes into the second half, Harry Kane doubled their advantage. The England striker met Joshua Kimmich’s corner at the far post, volleying home with precision to silence the Celtic crowd.
Celtic responded quickly and had strong penalty claims in the 53rd minute when Dayot Upamecano challenged Arne Engels inside the box. However, the referee waved away their protests, sticking with his original decision.
As the match progressed, Bayern continued to threaten but failed to put the game beyond doubt, missing key chances through Jamal Musiala and Olise.
Late Drama: Maeda Gives Celtic Hope
With just over ten minutes remaining, Celtic clawed their way back into the contest. Substitute Maeda found himself unmarked in the box and headed home from close range in the 79th minute, sparking belief among the home fans.
Celtic pushed forward in search of an equalizer, and in stoppage time, Alistair Johnston nearly leveled the score. However, Bayern’s veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer produced a world-class save to deny the defender, preserving his side’s slender advantage.
Key Talking Points
1. Kane Continues His Champions League Dominance
Harry Kane’s goal not only secured Bayern’s win but also extended his remarkable record in the Champions League. His latest strike took his tally to 46 goal involvements (36 goals, 10 assists) in the competition. Additionally, Kane has now scored 19 goals against Kasper Schmeichel in his career—five more than against any other goalkeeper.
2. Maeda’s Champions League Breakthrough
Despite the loss, Celtic can take pride in Maeda’s continued European form. His goal made him the first Celtic player to score four goals in a single Champions League campaign, highlighting his importance to Brendan Rodgers’ side.
3. Bayern in Control, But Celtic Not Out Yet
While Bayern hold the advantage heading into the second leg, Celtic’s late goal keeps their hopes alive. If they can capitalize on their attacking play and tighten up defensively, they could still cause an upset in Munich.
What’s Next?
Second Leg in Munich (Tuesday, February 20, 2024)
Bayern Munich will look to finish the job at home, while Celtic must produce a near-perfect performance to overturn the deficit and advance to the Champions League Round of 16.
Can Celtic pull off a shock, or will Bayern’s experience prove too much? The return leg promises to be a thrilling contest.
