Harry Kane made a triumphant return from injury, proving decisive as Bayern Munich secured a crucial 2-1 first-leg victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu. The England captain, a doubt before the match, showcased his world-class quality to give the German giants a slender advantage heading home for next week's decisive second leg.

After a tense opening, Bayern broke the deadlock late in the first half through Luis Díaz. Then, in a statement of intent just 20 seconds after the restart, Kane pounced to double the lead, netting his remarkable 49th goal of the season across all competitions. Real Madrid, never a side to be counted out, responded through the ever-dangerous Kylian Mbappé to set up a nervy finale, but Bayern held firm.

This result is a significant mental boost for Thomas Tuchel's side, snapping a nine-game Champions League winless streak against the Spanish giants. With history on their side—Bayern have advanced in 12 of the 13 ties where they won the first leg away—they will be confident of finishing the job in Munich. For Madrid, the task is clear: they must channel the famous European spirit that has defined their season to overturn the deficit on German soil.