Bayern Munich’s Champions League victory over Benfica was marred by the tragic loss of a fan, casting a solemn shadow over the team’s 1-0 triumph. The Bavarian club confirmed early Thursday that the fan had sadly passed away while being transported to the hospital after a medical emergency that unfolded in the stands during the first half.
The usually vibrant Allianz Arena fell silent as the situation became evident, with Bayern supporters refraining from their typical cheers and chants out of respect for the fan. Members of Bayern’s dedicated supporters’ group, Club Nr. 12, announced that they would “not be supporting as usual today because of an emergency medical intervention. Life comes before sport.” This show of solidarity extended throughout the stadium as fans joined in honoring the individual, offering a moment of quiet that resonated deeply.
Paramedics and police officers were seen rushing to the stands as fans anxiously looked on. Around half an hour into the match, the fan was carried out on a stretcher, but Bayern supporters did not resume their chants. Bayern later issued a statement noting, “A medical emergency in the stands of the Allianz Arena cast a shadow over the game right from the start. Out of consideration, the Südkurve refrained from its usual vociferous support for their team, and the club also reduced its coverage of the match.” The tragic news of the fan’s passing reached the club around an hour after the final whistle, with Bayern expressing their grief and extending heartfelt condolences to the fan’s family and friends.
On the pitch, Bayern’s Jamal Musiala scored the decisive goal in the 67th minute with a well-placed header from Harry Kane’s cross, ending Bayern’s two-game losing streak and marking their second win in the Champions League group stage. Although there was a brief cheer for the goal, the celebratory mood was subdued, as the fans continued to honor the affected family by holding back their typical celebrations.
Following the match, Bayern midfielder Konrad Laimer reflected on the tragedy: “We didn’t know of it during the game, just after it. We wish the family strength and best wishes; we’re thinking of all involved.” The club, players, and fans alike expressed their respect and solidarity, turning a night of football into a reminder of the deeper human connections shared within the Bayern community.
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