Harry Kane converted a penalty – and was allowed to retake it. He insisted the unusual sequence was all part of the plan.
Munich – Harry Kane found himself in a unique situation during Wednesday’s Champions League round of 16 second leg against Atalanta, initially appearing to have missed a penalty. A quick reversal followed, however, as the referee ordered a retake due to the goalkeeper having left his line. Kane revealed after the match that the unusual turn of events was precisely what he’d anticipated.
“Before the game, I noticed he likes to stand on the edge of the line. So I knew he would come forward if I delayed,” Kane explained, detailing his penalty plan. “That’s exactly what happened. The second time was about mind games – and I was prepared for that.” He calmly converted the retake, giving Bayern the lead and executing his plan to perfection.
Kane Explains Unusual Penalty Trick in Atalanta Victory
The goal was just the beginning of a dominant performance from Kane. He later scored what he called “probably the most beautiful Champions League goal of my career,” bringing his total to 50 Champions League goals in 66 games. Only Erling Haaland (49) and Ruud van Nistelrooy (62) reached the milestone faster.
Kane, who has already scored 47 goals in 39 competitive matches this season, is a key reason why Bayern are considered strong contenders for the Champions League title. “He is 100 percent a player who is currently in an outstanding phase of his life and career,” said Vincent Kompany.
Kane remained composed – even looking ahead to the challenges to come. The next round of the Champions League will pit Bayern against Real Madrid. “We fear no one,” he declared, anticipating the highly-anticipated clash. “You have to be ready for a fight.” In the coming weeks, Kane will undoubtedly continue to study the penalty routines of opposing goalkeepers.
