Norwegian champions Viking FK produced a memorable performance to hold Bayern Munich to a thrilling draw in the UEFA Champions League, recovering from a late setback to secure a result against one of Europe’s most successful clubs.
Viking, who were playing in Norway’s second division as recently as 2018, took a two-goal lead in the first half against the six-time European champions. Bayern eventually moved ahead through Harry Kane and Luis Díaz, but Michael Olise’s dismissal gave the Norwegian side an opportunity to fight back.
The match marked Viking’s first appearance in Europe’s premier club competition since the 1992–93 season.
Viking Take Bayern by Surprise
Viking needed just 71 seconds to open the scoring, with Gianni Stensness rising highest to head home from a corner. The hosts continued to trouble Bayern and doubled their advantage in the 38th minute. Peter Christiansen finished a superb counterattack by slotting the ball past goalkeeper Jonas Urbig.
Bayern responded through Kane, who converted a penalty before heading in another goal at the back post to restore parity. Luis Díaz then put the German side ahead with a close-range finish, seemingly shifting the contest in Bayern’s favour.
However, the game changed when Olise received two yellow cards during the same phase of play. The second followed an incident in which he threw the ball into a Viking player’s face, leaving Bayern with 10 men.
Viking took advantage of their numerical superiority and increased the pressure on the visitors. Substitute Herman Haugen eventually headed home at the back post to secure a deserved equaliser.
Tripic Celebrates Memorable Result
Viking captain Zlatko Tripic expressed his pride after the match, describing the performance as a significant moment in the club’s history.
“I could have played another 90 minutes. I’m so incredibly proud. I’ve waited 34 years for this,” Tripic told Norwegian broadcaster TV 2.
He praised his teammates for taking a two-goal lead against some of the world’s best players and delivering what he described as a solid performance. Viking have two head coaches, Morten Jensen and Bjarte Lunde Aarsheim, and remain joint top of Norway’s top division alongside Bodø/Glimt, with eight league matches remaining.
Bayern manager Vincent Kompany admitted that his side had contributed to the disappointing result.
“We were dominant, but at the moment it feels like every chance for the opposition leads to a goal,” he said.
Kompany also criticised Olise’s dismissal, describing the incident as “super dumb” and acknowledging that the winger regretted letting his teammates down. Bayern are scheduled to host Arsenal on October 21, with Olise suspended following his red card. Viking will travel to face Aston Villa on the same night.
