Bayern Munich began their German Cup title defence with a 4-1 comeback victory over second-division Osnabrueck on Wednesday, with Harry Kane scoring twice to lead the holders into the next round.

The hosts stunned Bayern early when Robin Meissner produced a superb dipping effort from outside the box to put Osnabrueck ahead after just five minutes.

Bayern responded calmly, however, and eventually took control of the contest through goals from Kane, Tom Bischof and Michael Olise before Kane added his second from the penalty spot late in the match.

Bayern Recover After Early Shock

Osnabrueck's fast start briefly raised the possibility of a major German Cup upset. Meissner found the net with an impressive long-range strike that left Bayern facing an early deficit.

The holders did not panic and soon found their response. Kane reacted quickest to a rebound and fired Bayern level, bringing his side back into the contest.

Bischof then struck six minutes later, also capitalising on a rebound, as Bayern turned the game around and established a 2-1 advantage.

Kane acknowledged the difficult conditions Bayern faced away from home, particularly after Osnabrueck's strong start.

“It’s never easy at an away ground with a very good atmosphere. They started the game with an amazing goal, and we had to stay calm,” Kane said.

“I’m happy we got the win.”

Kane Adds Another Late in the Game

Bayern continued to press for greater control after moving ahead and eventually extended their advantage through Michael Olise.

The French midfielder found the net in the 73rd minute to give Bayern a two-goal cushion and put the holders firmly in command.

Kane then completed his brace four minutes from full time, converting a penalty to make it 4-1 and put the result beyond doubt.

The England captain's two goals took his Bayern Munich tally to 148 goals in 150 appearances across all competitions since joining the club in 2023.

Bayern Avoid Another Early Cup Exit

The result allows Bayern to move safely beyond the opening round of the German Cup, a stage where they have not been eliminated since 1994.

Bayern are 21-time winners of the competition and entered this year's tournament as holders, making progression against Osnabrueck particularly important.

Despite the scare created by Meissner's early strike, Bayern eventually demonstrated their quality and secured a convincing victory.

Dortmund Also Start With a Win

Borussia Dortmund also progressed on Tuesday after defeating fifth-division amateur side HEBC 5-0 in Hamburg.

Their victory means Dortmund also made a strong start to their German Cup campaign as the opening round continued.

Key Takeaways

• Harry Kane scored twice in Bayern Munich's 4-1 win over Osnabrueck.
• Bayern came from behind after Robin Meissner's fifth-minute opener.
• Tom Bischof and Michael Olise were also on the scoresheet.
• Kane now has 148 goals in 150 games for Bayern across all competitions.
• Bayern have not been eliminated in the German Cup first round since 1994.
• Borussia Dortmund also advanced after beating HEBC 5-0.

SportsLigue