MUMBAI: In a moment as unpredictable as a last-minute goal, News9 shattered the conventional boundaries of news broadcasting by stepping onto the turf of live sports. On 4 December, the channel made history as the first Indian news network to air a professional football match, delivering Bayer Leverkusen’s nail-biting 1-0 triumph over Bayern Munich in the German Cup directly from the iconic Allianz Arena. A gamble so audacious it bordered on bizarre, this bold move rewrote the rules of news broadcasting—proving, as they say, that sometimes the wildest ideas yield the greatest victories.

The live broadcast showcased News9’s commitment to redefining news content by integrating sports and entertainment, captivating a broader audience. The match, rich in drama, featured Bayer Leverkusen’s resilience against the might of Bayern Munich, led by a game-changing header from substitute Nathan Tella in the 69 minute. Bayern Munich, reduced to 10 men after Manuel Neuer’s red card in the 17 minute, failed to break through despite standout performances by Kingsley Coman and Leon Goretzka.

“This is a historic moment not just for News9 but for Indian news media as a whole,” said TV9 Network, MD & CEO, Barun Das. “Bringing live football action to a news platform demonstrates our commitment to evolving news content to meet the diverse interests of our audience. This marks the beginning of a new era in engaging and relevant broadcasting.”

News9 complemented its live telecast with in-depth pre- and post-match analysis, featuring insights from seasoned football experts. The channel also offered a concise recap for viewers, highlighting Bayer Leverkusen’s determination and Bayern Munich’s first defeat of the season in league and cup matches.

News9’s foray into live sports broadcasting signals a bold step forward in blending news with entertainment. This initiative underscores the channel’s innovative approach to broadening its audience base while maintaining its commitment to quality journalism.