Chelsea: Frank Lampard’s defence of John Terry for wearing full kit in Munich

May 19, 2022, marks the tenth anniversary of arguably the greatest night in Chelsea’s history.

The Blues were crowned European champions for the first time in 2012, defeating Bayern Munich at the German giants’ home stadium to complete one of the most remarkable cup runs in football history.

Nobody gave Chelsea a hope of winning the Champions League after losing 3-1 to Napoli in the Round of 16 first leg, three months before the final.

The west London outfit were in disarray under 34-year-old Andre Villas-Boas, who was sacked a couple of weeks later.

Roberto Di Matteo was installed as caretaker manager until the end of the season and Chelsea somehow went on to beat Napoli, Benfica and, most impressively of all, Barcelona under the Italian coach’s guidance.

The mighty Bayern Munich awaited Chelsea in the final – and the English side, who were without their talismanic captain John Terry, were expected to fall at the final hurdle.

It appeared to be game over when Thomas Muller broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute, but a dramatic late header from Didier Drogba sent the game to extra-time.

Petr Cech then went on to save a penalty from former Chelsea winger Arjen Robben before the final was eventually settled on penalties.

And it was Drogba who calmly stepped up to score the decisive spot-kick, sparking wild scenes of celebration in front of a stunned Bayern Munich.

On This Day in 2012, the greatest day in the history of Chelsea Football Club.Champions League winners