Watch: Pitch-invading ginger cat brings Champions League match to a standstill

The second leg of the last 16 Champions League match between Besiktas and Bayern Munich this morning was brought to a halt due to an unexpected pitch invader.

It wasn't an angry fan, a naked streaker or a protester trying to promote their message.

Today's surprise guest was much smaller - a humble Istanbul cat.

Istanbul's problems with stray cats is well documented, with many not just populating back streets and dumpsters but also public buildings, concert halls and restaurants.

However, this particular ginger cat decided it wanted to catch some Champions League action and somehow made its way onto the pitch in the 50th minute with Bayern already leading 2-0.

After a minute as waltzing around the corner flag, the cat made its way off the pitch to the roar of the crowd and play resumed.

The cat's appearance failed to deter Bayern or bring Besiktas some feline luck.

The German side completed a comprehensive 8-1 aggregate victory, having effectively clinched the last-16 tie following a 5-0 rout last month in the first leg in Munich.

In the other match of the morning, Barcelona eliminated Chelsea with a comprehensive 3-0 scoreline to win 4-1 on aggregate.