The first ring-opening addition of a benzylic C(sp3)–H bond to azabenzonorbornadienes is demonstrated. The reaction proceeded under the catalytic system of [Cp*CoI2(CO)], AgSbF6 and Fe(OAc)2 in PhOMe. The methodology showed a good substrate scope with up to 96% yield. The relative configuration of the product was determined as cis-configuration by X-ray crystallography.
