Boca and Benfica Clash in Fiery Club World Cup Opener

Boca Juniors and Benfica played out a dramatic 2–2 draw in their opening 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Group C match at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, a game marked by early goals, VAR drama, and three red cards in a heated South American-European showdown.

Merentiel and Battaglia Fire Boca Ahead

Boca started on the front foot, energizing a packed Miami crowd with their trademark intensity and direct play.

In the 21st minute, Miguel Merentiel broke the deadlock after combining sharply with Lautaro Blanco before finishing low past the Benfica goalkeeper. Just six minutes later, Rodrigo Battaglia rose highest to head home from a Kevin Zenón corner, putting Boca firmly in control at 2–0.

Benfica Rally with Di María and Otamendi

The momentum shifted dramatically just before halftime. Ángel Di María converted a controversial penalty in the 45th minute after a foul on Nicolás Otamendi, awarded following a VAR review.

Boca’s Ander Herrera, already subbed off due to injury, was shown a red card for protesting the call from the bench—igniting fury on the touchline and among fans.

Benfica continued to press in the second half and were rewarded in the 83rd minute when Otamendi rose above his marker to power in a header, silencing the pro-Boca crowd and leveling the score.

Red Cards and Rising Tensions

The game turned increasingly hostile in the final stages:

72′: Andrea Belotti of Benfica received a red card for a dangerous high boot challenge on Boca’s Ayrton Costa.
88′: Nicolás Figal was sent off for Boca after a reckless tackle, reducing the Argentine side to nine men.
The refereeing decisions, especially the penalty and red cards, drew sharp criticism from Boca players and supporters post-match.

Electrifying Atmosphere in Miami

Despite the controversial officiating, the game was played in a spectacular atmosphere, with over 55,000 fans—mostly Boca supporters—creating a “mini La Bombonera” vibe in Miami. Chants, flares, and flags lit up the stadium in a match that had all the emotion and intensity of a continental final.

Tactical Notes

• Boca Juniors looked sharp in attack early, especially from set pieces, but lost discipline and midfield control after going down to 10, then 9 men.
• Benfica relied on experience and aerial dominance, with Di María and Otamendi stepping up when it mattered most.

What’s Next?

• Boca Juniors face Bayern Munich next in what could be a group-deciding clash in Miami.
• Benfica meet Auckland City in Orlando, a must-win if they aim to reach the knockout rounds.
   

Match Summary:

• Final Score: Boca Juniors 2–2 Benfica
• Goal Scorers: Merentiel (21′), Battaglia (27′) – Boca; Di María (45′ pen), Otamendi (83′) – Benfica
• Red Cards: Herrera (Boca, 45′), Belotti (Benfica, 72′), Figal (Boca, 88′)
• Attendance: 55,574
• Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami

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