Harry Kane struck twice as Bayern Munich beat Flamengo 4-2 in a heated contest at the Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday, securing a mouthwatering Club World Cup quarter-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain.
The German champions made a blistering start, scoring twice within the opening 10 minutes. Erick Pulgar inadvertently turned a corner into his own net in the sixth minute before Kane doubled the lead moments later with a low shot that deflected in off the post.
Despite Flamengo’s spirited efforts and the backing of a loud crowd, Bayern maintained control by capitalising on every shot on target. Leon Goretzka added a third for Bayern late in the first half, while Flamengo responded twice through Gerson and Jorginho but struggled with defensive lapses throughout.
“It was tough. We were playing against a really good side in difficult conditions, it was really hot,” Kane said after the match. “I thought we played well for large spells but every time we got away, they clawed their way back and made it difficult. The fourth goal was important to ease the nerves and from there we managed it well.”
Gerson’s thunderous strike off the underside of the bar in the 30th minute gave Flamengo brief hope, but Goretzka soon restored Bayern’s cushion before the break. Tempers flared as Pulgar fouled Kane shortly after, reflecting the rising tension on the pitch.
Jorginho later converted a penalty after a handball by Michael Olise to reduce the deficit again early in the second half, but Bayern weathered the pressure. Kane sealed the win in the 73rd minute with a composed finish past Agustin Rossi, ensuring the Bavarians progressed to face PSG.
Earlier in the day, PSG showcased their attacking prowess with a 4-0 win over Inter Miami, easing off after the break in what could have been a humiliating night for Lionel Messi’s MLS side.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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