News9, India’s independent digital-first English news platform, has etched its name in history as the first news network to broadcast a professional football match live on a news channel.

This landmark initiative, according to a media statement from the news network, underscores News9’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional news programming and delivering compelling content to its viewers.

The live telecast featured a dramatic showdown at the iconic Allianz Arena (Germany) as Bayer Leverkusen stunned Bayern Munich 1-0 in the German Cup, securing their place in the quarter-finals. News9’s comprehensive coverage, on television and digital platforms, brought football fans an immersive viewing experience of this thrilling encounter.

The match was marked by high-intensity drama. Bayern Munich found themselves at a disadvantage in the 17th minute when their goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, was shown a straight red card for a foul outside the box. Despite being a man down, Bayern created several opportunities, with standout performances from Kingsley Coman and Leon Goretzka. However, it was Leverkusen’s substitute Nathan Tella who scored the decisive goal with a brilliant header in the 69th minute, sealing a memorable victory for Xabi Alonso’s team.

“This initiative is a milestone not just for News9, but for the evolution of news media in India,” said Barun Das, MD & CEO of TV9 Network, “By bringing live football action to a news channel, we are redefining the way news and entertainment intersect, catering to a diverse audience that craves more than just headlines. This is the future of engaging and relevant news broadcasting.”

News9’s pre- and post-match analysis provided rich insights into the match, featuring seasoned football experts and exclusive data on key moments. For those seeking a quick recap, a short STD/VO encapsulated the night’s drama, detailing Bayer Leverkusen’s resilient performance and Bayern Munich’s first defeat of the season in both league and cup play.

News9’s foray into live sports broadcasting sets a new benchmark, signalling its commitment to innovation and broadening its audience reach. With this initiative, News9 has demonstrated its capability to blend news, sports, and entertainment seamlessly, providing viewers with a dynamic and engaging experience, the statement said.

News9 is a 24×7 digital streaming offering from News9 Mediaverse, which includes News9 Plus, the world’s first news OTT platform, and News9live.com.