The highly anticipated clash between Boca Juniors and Benfica at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida, ended in a 2-2 draw, with Benfica staging a late comeback to snatch a point after Boca had initially taken a commanding two-goal lead. The match, held at Hard Rock Stadium, was a Group C encounter that lived up to its billing, packed with drama, stunning goals, and controversial moments.
Boca Juniors, known for their fervent fanbase and intense playing style, started the game strongly, bringing the atmosphere of "La Bombonera in Miami," according to reports. Miguel Merentiel opened the scoring in the 21st minute with a stylish finish, nutmegging his defender before slotting the ball home, following a precise assist from Lautaro Blanco. Just six minutes later, Rodrigo Battaglia doubled Boca's advantage with a powerful header from a corner, sending the Argentine fans into raptures.
Benfica, however, refused to be cowed. Just before halftime, in the 45th minute, a VAR review led to a penalty for the Portuguese side. Angel Di Maria, the experienced Argentinian, stepped up and coolly converted the spot-kick, reducing the deficit and injecting fresh hope into Benfica's challenge.
The second half was filled with incident. Both teams battled fiercely, and the match took a dramatic turn when Ander Herrera of Boca Juniors was shown a red card for unsportsmanlike conduct off the pitch. Benfica then suffered a setback of their own when Andrea Belotti received a red card, reducing both teams to ten men. Adding to the chaotic nature of the game, Jorge Figal of Boca Juniors was also sent off late in the game. Benfica capitalized on their numerical advantage when Nicolás Otamendi scored a header near the penalty spot in the dying minutes, leveling the score at 2-2.
The draw leaves both teams with a point each in Group C, which also includes Bayern Munich and Auckland City. With Bayern Munich considered the group favorite, this result could be crucial in determining who advances to the knockout stage. Boca Juniors will rue the missed opportunity to secure a vital win, while Benfica will be relieved to have salvaged a point after being two goals down.
