Match Recap: A Frenzied Clash in Miami
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Group C match between Boca Juniors and Benfica at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, delivered a chaotic 2-2 draw on June 16, 2025, described as the tournament’s most entertaining game so far. Both teams finished with 10 players after a match filled with stunning goals, contentious decisions, and intense drama, leaving fans buzzing and Group C wide open. This recap covers the key moments and implications, optimized for searches like “Boca Juniors vs Benfica live updates” and “Club World Cup 2025 Group C.”
First-Half Fireworks: Boca’s Lead and Benfica’s Response
Boca Juniors, led by coach Miguel Ángel Russo, surged to a 2-0 lead in the first half, capitalizing on their attacking intent. In the 21st minute, captain Miguel Merentiel opened the scoring, expertly converting a low cross from Lautaro Blanco to ignite the passionate Boca fans. Six minutes later, Rodrigo Battaglia doubled the advantage, heading in a corner assisted by Ayrton Costa. Despite Benfica’s early possession dominance, Boca’s clinical finishing put them in control. However, the momentum shifted just before halftime when Nicolas Otamendi was fouled in the box, earning a penalty after a VAR review. Angel Di María, facing his fellow Argentinians, coolly slotted the penalty to make it 2-1, breathing life into Benfica’s campaign.
Second-Half Drama: Red Cards and a Late Equalizer
The second half intensified the chaos. Benfica substitute Andrea Belotti was sent off in the 71st minute for dangerous play, leaving the Portuguese side with 10 men. Despite the disadvantage, Benfica pressed forward, exploiting Boca’s tiring defense in the Miami heat. In the 84th minute, Nicolas Otamendi, booed by Boca fans earlier, silenced them with a thumping header from Orkun Kökçü’s corner, leveling the score at 2-2. Boca’s hopes of a late winner were dashed when Jorge Figal received a straight red card in the 88th minute for a reckless challenge on Florentino Luis, reducing both teams to 10 players. The match ended with tempers flaring, as Boca goalkeeper Agustín Marchesín attempted to spark a post-game scuffle, and Ander Herrera, already substituted, earned a red card for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Group C Implications: A Tight Race Ahead
The draw leaves both teams with one point in Group C, trailing Bayern Munich, who crushed Auckland City 10-0. With Bayern favored to top the group, Boca and Benfica are now in a tight race for the second knockout berth. Boca will feel the sting of letting a two-goal lead slip, especially with their man advantage, while Benfica’s resilience despite Belotti’s red card boosts their confidence. The group’s outcome may hinge on goal difference against Auckland City, setting up potential high-scoring battles. Three red cards and four yellows underscored the match’s intensity, with Boca’s defensive lapses and Benfica’s fighting spirit shaping the narrative.
Looking Forward: What’s Next for Both Teams
Boca Juniors, hampered by injuries to Ayrton Costa and Marco Pellegrino, must regroup to face Bayern Munich next, a daunting task given their inconsistent domestic form. Benfica, making their Club World Cup debut, will lean on Vangelis Pavlidis’ attacking prowess and Di María’s experience to navigate the group stage. Both teams’ ability to manage fatigue and discipline will be critical in their upcoming matches. This electrifying draw sets the stage for a thrilling Group C battle in the 2025 Club World Cup.
