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Boca took the lead in the 26th minute when Lautaro Di Lollo’s header struck the post and ricocheted into the net off goalkeeper Nathan Garrow, chalking it up as an own goal.
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Just seven minutes into the second half, Christian Gray, a 28‑year‑old PE teacher, delivered a powerful header from a corner, leveling the score and scoring Auckland’s first ever goal in the tournament.
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The game stalled for nearly 50 minutes when a severe thunder and lightning storm forced players off in the 52nd minute.
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As play resumed, Boca Juniors needed a win and Benfica to slip up—but a 1–0 Benfica victory over Bayern Munich ensured Argentina’s exit. A subsequent VAR call also erased a Miguel Merentiel goal for handball.
Why this is historic:
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Auckland City, comprising part-timers—teachers, barbers, sales reps, and more, earned a point that resonated beyond sport.
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The result is being hailed as “heroic,” celebrating the club’s grit after heavy losses (10–0 to Bayern, 6–0 to Benfica).
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In Argentina, media backlash was punitive: called an “embarrassment” for Boca, whose possession dominance failed to produce winning chances.
Reactions and Takeaways
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Christian Gray, humble and elated, said: “Scoring that goal was just surreal… I’m happy for the boys”.
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Coach Paul Posa spoke of pride and reward: “We’re a tiny club with a huge heart… I think people here just don’t have any idea how small a little club we are”—*after his team secured reputational uplift and a USD 1 million payoff .
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Boca’s coach Miguel Ángel Russo acknowledged tactical deficiencies: “Until their goal, it was all ours… we couldn’t increase our lead”.
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FIFA President Gianni Infantino observed the match amid oppressive heat (~96°F/35°C), a factor widely noted by players.
Final Group C Standings
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Benfica: Advance (top)
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Bayern Munich: Advance (second)
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Boca Juniors: Out (3rd, 2 pts)
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Auckland City: Out (4th, 1 pt)
Auckland City’s draw with Boca Juniors is a vivid underdog triumph— a testament to heart, teamwork, and the charm of the beautiful game. For Boca, it’s a humiliating elimination; for Auckland City, it’s an unforgettable snapshot of resilience on football’s grandest stage.
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