Champions League Kickoff: Kane and Rüdiger Shine in New Format

Harry Kane delivered a stunning performance, scoring four goals as Bayern Munich thrashed Dinamo Zagreb 9-2 in a thrilling Champions League kickoff. Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger played a pivotal role in their 2-1 victory over former club VfB Stuttgart.

In Madrid, Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring with his first Champions League goal for the holders, but Deniz Undav equalized for Stuttgart. Rüdiger then put Madrid back in front in the 83rd minute, with Endrick sealing the win.

Bayern Munich, under new coach Vincent Kompany, took the lead with Kane’s penalty. Goals from Raphael Guerreiro and Michael Olise gave them a 3-0 lead by halftime. Despite conceding twice early in the second half, Bayern reasserted control with Kane’s hat-trick and a fourth goal from the spot. Leroy Sané and Leon Goretzka added further goals.

In another highlight, Liverpool came from behind to defeat AC Milan 3-1 in a replay of the iconic 2005 final. Christian Pulisic initially put Milan ahead, but Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk scored headers from set pieces, with Dominik Szoboszlai securing the win.

Sporting Lisbon edged out Lille 2-0 with goals from Viktor Gyökeres and Zeno Debast. Lille’s Angel Gomes was sent off before halftime.

Earlier matches saw Juventus defeat PSV Eindhoven 3-1, while Aston Villa triumphed 3-0 at Young Boys Bern.