FC Bayern Munich: Death of a fan overshadows Champions League victory

FC Bayern Munich’s victory in the Champions League game against Benfica Lisbon was overshadowed by a death. Around an hour after the final whistle, the German soccer record champions received “the sad news” that a fan had died on the way to the hospital. Shortly after kick-off, the spectator in the stands received emergency medical care and was then transported away.

“FC Bayern is at the side of the relatives in mourning,” the club wrote on its website. Out of sympathy, the Bayern fans in the south curve refrained from their usual loud support of their team during the game. “There are definitely more important things in life than football,” said sports director Max Eberl. He found that the fans had shown appropriate respect with their behavior.

“We didn’t celebrate much after the game. The boys only found out after the game,” reported coach Vincent Kompany before the news of his death was announced. After the final whistle, the stadium announcer also informed the audience in the sold-out arena of 75,000 spectators about the incident and why there was no support from the supporters. The music was also more subdued than usual after the game was won by a header from Jamal Musiala.

“When something like that happens, it’s a nice sign of solidarity somewhere that the fans don’t put their own party in front, but also show a sign of humanity,” commented Bayern veteran Thomas Müller.

Captain Manuel Neuer also felt for him. “We’re very sorry and we didn’t really celebrate this victory in the dressing room,” said the goalkeeper. “We feel for the fan or the person.”