Karl makes history as Bayern rally past Sporting CP

December 10, 2025 Oliver Obel

Bayern thought they had struck early when Karl reacted quickest to a loose ball and tucked it away, but the goal was ruled out after Serge Gnabry was judged offside in the buildup. As GOAL noted in its match coverage, Bayern created the better chances from open play; Harry Kane clipped the post, and Karl forced a sharp save from Rui Silva shortly before the break.

Sporting, however, stunned the home crowd immediately after halftime. According to reports from both UEFA and GOAL, Joao Simoes accelerated down the left and fired a driven cross into the box. Joshua Kimmich’s attempted interception instead sent the ball spinning past Manuel Neuer, giving the visitors an unexpected lead.

Momentum shifts back to Bayern

Bayern responded quickly. Roughly ten minutes after conceding, Michael Olise’s corner found its way to Gnabry, who finished from close range to restore parity. The equaliser lifted Bayern’s tempo, and the match tilted firmly in their favor.

Minutes later, Karl delivered the decisive moment. As highlighted by GOAL’s analysis, the teenager timed his run perfectly to latch onto a pass, cushioning the ball on his left foot before firing an assured right-footed shot into the far corner. His composure belied his age and put Bayern ahead for the first time.

Finishing the job

Sporting’s structure faded as Bayern pressed for a third. Kimmich, eager to make amends for his earlier misfortune, sent a precise long ball toward the box. Olise headed it across goal, where Jonathan Tah arrived unmarked to guide the ball home and seal the result.

Standout performer and tough night

Karl once again emerged as Bayern’s standout. UEFA statistics cited by GOAL confirmed he is now the youngest player in Champions League history to score in three straight matches an accolade that matches the confidence and maturity he showed throughout the evening.

Kimmich, however, endured a rough outing. Beyond the own goal, he became entangled in a brief confrontation after Bayern’s equaliser and picked up a booking. His assist contribution for the third goal offered some redemption, but it remained a night defined by mixed moments.

Sources: GOAL, UEFA official match report, Champions League broadcast commentary.