Norwegian champions Viking produced one of the biggest results in their history, holding six-time European champions Bayern Munich to a thrilling draw in the Champions League. The match saw Viking take control with two first-half goals, only for England captain Harry Kane to equalize with a penalty and a back-post header. This impressive performance by Viking, who were in Norway's second tier as recently as 2018, has garnered significant attention.
Viking took the lead after 71 seconds when Gianni Stensness rose highest to head home a corner, before Peter Christiansen superbly slotted past Jonas Urbig on the break in the 38th minute. However, Michael Olise was sent off shortly after for two yellow cards in the same phase of play, including throwing the ball in a Viking player's face. This red card gave Viking renewed energy, and they were the better team after the sending-off.
Harry Kane's brace, which pulled Bayern level, means he has 36 goals in 40 Champions League games since turning 30, taking him one clear of Lionel Messi's record of 35 strikes in his thirties. The 33-year-old has scored in nine successive Champions League games - a feat only achieved by Ruud van Nistelrooy, Robert Lewandowski and Cristiano Ronaldo, who holds the record with 11 games.
Viking captain Zlatko Tripic expressed his pride and happiness after the match, stating that he could have played another 90 minutes. He mentioned that the team played an incredibly solid match, using everything they had, and gained a bit of European experience. Tripic also highlighted that they were playing against some of the best players in the world, yet they still managed to take a 2-0 lead.
Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany attributed the draw to his team's own fault, stating that the red card was super dumb and that Michael Olise regrets letting the team down. Kompany also mentioned that they were dominant but felt that every chance for the opposition led to a goal.
Viking, who have two head coaches, Morten Jensen and Bjarte Lunde Aarsheim, are joint top of the Norwegian top flight with Bodø/Glimt, with eight games remaining. The team has had an impressive rise, winning the second-tier title in 2018 and the top-flight Norwegian title last season, their ninth but first in 34 years.
Viking's next match is against Aston Villa, while Bayern Munich will host Arsenal on 21 October without Michael Olise after his sending-off. Viking's impressive performance in the Champions League has garnered significant attention, and they will look to continue their form in the competition.
Key points
- Harry Kane breaks Lionel Messi's record for most goals scored in the Champions League since turning 30.
- Viking secure a draw against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, one of the biggest results in their history.
- Michael Olise's red card changed the dynamics of the match, giving Viking renewed energy and a deserved equalizer.
