'link' | 2012/13 Champions League

The relief was palpable. Robben didn't just celebrate; he collapsed to his knees. The curse of Heimstärke (home strength, referring to their 2012 loss at home) was lifted. The fairytale of Dortmund was over, but the dynasty of Bayern had begun.

The competition began with a major upset as the defending champions, , were eliminated in the group stage. Finishing behind Juventus and Shakhtar Donetsk in Group E, they became the first titleholders in the Champions League era to fail to reach the knockout rounds. Other notable storylines from the group stage included: 2012/13 champions league

It was a season where the beautiful game was played at its most brutal, efficient, and emotional best. The relief was palpable