Boca Juniors Still in the Hunt Despite Dropping Two-Goal Lead to Benfica

Boca Juniors Still in the Hunt Despite Dropping Two-Goal Lead to Benfica

Miami, FL – June 16, 2025: Boca Juniors remain in contention for the knockout stage of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup after a dramatic 2–2 draw against Benfica at Hard Rock Stadium. The Argentine powerhouse took an early two-goal lead but saw it slip away late in a match marked by tension and three red cards

Match Highlights & Turning Points ⚽️

  • 21′ Miguel Merentiel opened for Boca, followed by Rodrigo Battaglia’s header in the 27th minute 

  • Ángel Di María pulled one back for Benfica with a penalty just before halftime 

  • In the 84th minute, Nicolás Otamendi equalized for Benfica via a powerful header 

  • The match was marred by three red cards: Ander Herrera, Andrea Belotti, and Nicolás Figal

Tactical Analysis & Reactions

Boca coach Miguel Ángel Russo lamented their inability to maintain a two-goal advantage, pointing to a persistent gulf between European and South American club football  Benito’s manager Bruno Lage praised his side’s resilience after a challenging start .

Captain Miguel Merentiel admitted the result felt bittersweet but emphasized the need to “believe in ourselves” and improve ahead of their next match .

Off the Pitch: Fans & Atmosphere

Boca’s famously passionate supporters filled Hard Rock Stadium, creating a home-like atmosphere for the Argentine side. The intensity of the Boca fanbase has been a highlight—though an early exit could deflate the tournament’s energy 

What Lies Ahead: Bayern Show No Mercy

On June 15, Bayern Munich thrashed Auckland City 10–0, sending a clear message to Group C rivals . Boca now faces the German giants on June 20. With Bayern virtually assured of topping the group, Boca’s path to the Round of 16 hinges on finishing second—the margin may very well come down to goal difference 

Other Critical Factors

  • Defensive shake-ups: Boca lost defender Ayrton Costa when his U.S. visa was denied, propelling veteran Marcos Rojo into the lineup 

  • Russso’s rebuilding strategy: Appointed in early June, Russo is overhauling the squad ahead of this tournament, bringing in players like Ander Herrera and Marco Pellegrino, aiming to restore Boca’s international prestige 

What to Watch

Date Fixture Implications
June 20 Boca Juniors vs Bayern Munich Determines second place—and entry into Round of 16
June 24 Boca vs Auckland City Opportunity to boost goal difference

A strong performance in the next two games will be pivotal for Boca’s chances of advancing.

Final Summary

Despite letdowns and disciplinary issues, Boca Juniors remain in the hunt for knockout qualification. Their next clash with Bayern Munich on June 20 is a critical juncture—failure to perform could spell elimination. But with their fanbase roaring and Russo’s rebuilt squad, Boca still have the tools to upset hopes.