Harry Kane nets double as Bayern Munich begin DFB-Pokal defence in style
Bayern Munich began their DFB-Pokal defence with a 4-1 win away to Osnabruck, recovering quickly after the second-division hosts had produced an early shock. Harry Kane scored twice as Vincent Kompany’s side moved into the second round, extending a productive start to the new season.
Kompany selected a full-strength-looking side, with Kane, Luis Diaz, Michael Olise and Joshua Kimmich all involved from the outset, but Bayern were behind within five minutes. Robin Meissner capitalised on a defensive misunderstanding and struck a 30-yard volley beyond goalkeeper Jonas Urbig.
The response was swift. Kane equalised 13 minutes after Osnabruck’s opener with a volley of his own, restoring Bayern’s control of the tie. Tom Bischof then put the visitors ahead, before Olise added a third and Kane converted a late penalty to complete the 4-1 result.
Diaz backs Kane for Ballon d’Or recognition
After the match, Diaz described his Bayern and England team-mate as the world’s outstanding player, pointing to the breadth of Kane’s contribution as well as his scoring record. The Colombian said Kane had demonstrated his level throughout last season and over a longer period, adding that he admired a player who appears capable of every aspect of the game.
Diaz also highlighted Kane’s work for the team away from the penalty area, citing his ability to involve colleagues, run, defend, score and threaten from distance. In his view, Kane’s mentality and all-round influence make him a leading candidate for the Ballon d’Or, and he hopes the striker receives the award.
Kane’s case has been strengthened by a remarkable return of 73 goals and eight assists across 65 appearances for club and country over the past year. He also scored six times at the 2026 World Cup, helping England finish third. The 73-goal haul is the second-highest single-season total by any player since 2000, behind only Lionel Messi’s 82 goals for Barcelona and Argentina in 2011-12.
Having opened his account in the new campaign and watched Bayern score nine times across their last two fixtures, Kane will now turn towards Saturday’s Bundesliga meeting with promoted Schalke. Bayern will learn their DFB-Pokal second-round opponents after continuing their cup defence in Osnabruck.
