Bayern Munich finally got hold of the Bundesliga trophy after extending its goals record with a Harry Kane hat trick on Saturday. The 5-1 rout of Cologne in the final round sealed an unprecedented campaign.
Record-Breaking Season
Kane's fourth hat trick this season lifted his tally to 36 goals — five shy of Robert Lewandowski's league record from 2020-21. Tom Bischof and Nicolas Jackson also scored in the victory.
Bayern finished with 122 goals, easily surpassing the previous Bundesliga record haul of 101 by the 1971-72 Bayern team featuring Franz Beckenbauer and Gerd Müller.
"We have a great group, a great togetherness, and to celebrate success with that is awesome," Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl said after his second league title with the club.
Player Achievements
Leon Goretzka, leaving the club after eight seasons, scored the goal that broke the record with five rounds still to play.
French winger Michael Olise, who contributed 15 goals and 22 assists over 32 appearances, was named Bundesliga player of the season.
Trophy Celebration
Vincent Kompany's team wrapped up the title with four rounds to spare but the players had to wait until Saturday before receiving the "salad bowl" trophy.
Captain Manuel Neuer, whoExtended his contract for another year on Friday, presented the trophy to Goretzka to hoist skyward. Confetti exploded as Queen's "We Are The Champions" blared across the stadium.
The traditional beer showers quickly followed as giant pitchers were brought to the field. Defender Dayot Upamecano drenched manager Kompany before he could join his family on the sideline.
"I'd say today it's OK to celebrate a little," Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich said. "Then we have a week and then we'll be fully focused on the cup final."
German Cup Final Awaites
Bayern plays defending champion Stuttgart in the German Cup final in Berlin's Olympiastadion next Saturday.
By Ciarán Fahey, The Associated Press