Boca Juniors’ journey in the Club World Cup has come to an abrupt end. The Argentine side was eliminated after Benfica pulled off a surprising 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the final match of Group C, securing the top spot and leaving Miguel Ángel Russo’s team with no chance of advancing.
Played in Miami, the Portuguese side took the lead early with a goal by Andreas Schjelderup. Benfica withstood Bayern’s constant pressure throughout the match to earn a historic result that not only sent them through to the next round but also knocked out Boca, who were relying on a different outcome to stay alive.
Early Goal, Solid Defense
The only goal of the match came in the opening minutes. Ángel Di María drove the play down the right wing, passed to Pavlidis, who then delivered a low cross that Schjelderup finished with precision.
From that moment, Benfica focused on defensive discipline. Despite Bayern’s efforts—with key chances from Sané, Kimmich, and Kane—they couldn’t find the net. A goal from Kimmich was eventually disallowed due to Harry Kane obstructing the goalkeeper in an offside position.
Boca Out Without Playing
Boca’s scheduled match against Auckland City was suspended and will not affect the group standings. The Argentine club needed Bayern to win to keep their hopes alive, but Benfica’s victory ended any mathematical possibility for Boca.
Final Group C Standings:
- Benfica: 6 points (Qualified)
- Bayern Munich: 3 points
- Boca Juniors: 1 point
- Auckland City: 1 point
