DHAKA: Jerome Boateng scored a dramatic late winner as Bayern Munich kicked off their Champions League campaign with a 1-0 victory over Manchester City.

City goalkeeper Joe Hart frustrated the Bundesliga champions for long periods of the Group E opener at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, as Bayern looked set to start the group stages with a draw.

Thomas Muller ought to have put the Bavarian giants in front inside a minute when he rounded Hart but could only fire wide when he finally got his shot away.

Manuel Pellegrini could only watch on from the stands as he served a touchline ban, with his assistant Ruben Cousillas taking charge on the sidelines, and he must have had his head in his hands as former City defender Boateng's half-volley deflected past Hart at the death.

The Premier League champions produced a stirring fightback to win at Bayern last season, but were left heartbroken this time around, reports goal.com

Mehdi Benatia was handed his Bayern debut, while fellow defender Rafinha made his first appearance of the season after recovering from an ankle injury.

Arjen Robben was only deemed fit enough to start on the bench after recovering from a knee problem.

BDST: 1022 HRS, SEP 05, 2014