Drama in Miami: Boca Juniors Bleed Out Two-Goal Lead in Thrilling 2–2 Draw with Benfica

An electrifying opener in Group C at the FIFA Club World Cup saw Boca Juniors surrender a 2–0 lead to finish level with Benfica in a roller-coaster 2–2 draw at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on June 16.

First‑Half Fury:

Boca captured early momentum through Miguel Merentiel (21′) and Rodrigo Battaglia (27′), roaring to a two-goal lead amid frenzied support from their passionate Argentine fans.

Benfica Fightback:
Just before halftime, Ángel Di María cut the deficit with a calm, spot‑kick penalty after a foul on Nicolás Otamendi (45′). Then, deep into the second half, Otamendi powered in a game‑leveling header from a corner (83′) .

Tensions Boil Over:
The match erupted into chaos, with Andrea Belotti (Benfica) and Nicolás Figal (Boca) both sent off. The fiery atmosphere spilled onto the bench too—Ander Herrera was even red‑carded for dissent .

More Than Just a Match:
The contest showcased Boca’s raw South American flair against the high‑stakes spectacle of the Club World Cup—sparking debate on football’s global commercialization amid “real” emotion on display.

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What’s at Stake

• Boca Juniors cling to second in Group C behind Bayern Munich, keeping hopes alive for knockout qualification.

• Benfica showed character in adversity and will look to build on this resilience against Auckland City next.

Stay tuned—Group C’s drama is far from over as both teams aim to keep their knockout dreams burning bright.