English
Controversial Draw in Miami: Boca Juniors and Benfica Tie in Emotionally Charged Match
Miami Gardens, Florida – In a hard-fought encounter at the Hard Rock Stadium, Boca Juniors and Benfica drew in a memorable match marked by expulsions and controversy. Under the watchful eye of Mexican referee César Ramos Palazuelos, the match corresponding to the group stage of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 did not disappoint in terms of excitement.
Boca Juniors took an early lead with goals from Miguel Merentiel in the 21st minute, assisted by L. Blanco, and R. Battaglia in the 27th minute, assisted by A. Costa. However, the match took a dramatic turn just before halftime with the expulsion of A. Herrera in the 45th minute. Benfica seized the opportunity, and A. Di Maria scored from the penalty spot, no assist.
Despite having only 40% possession, Boca remained steadfast. The second half was filled with tension. Benfica, with more possession (60%), persistently sought the equalizer. However, another expulsion, this time of A. Belotti in the 72nd minute, evened the forces on the field. Nevertheless, N. Otamendi equalized in the 84th minute, assisted by O. Kokcu.
The end of the match was chaotic, with another expulsion for Boca Juniors, this time of J. Figal in the 88th minute. The match concluded in a tie that leaves a bittersweet taste for both teams, especially for Boca, who despite playing valiantly, saw victory slip away. The match ended with a total of 12 fouls for Boca and 8 for Benfica. Boca had 10 shots, 2 on target, 3 off target, and 4 corners, while Benfica had 7 shots, 3 on target, 3 off target, and 7 corners.
Substitutions boca juniors: at minute 20 T. Belmonte came in and A. Herrera went out., at minute 58 M. Gimenez came in and A. Velasco went out., at minute 65 E. Zeballos came in and Miguel Merentiel went out., at minute 66 W. H. Alarcon Cepeda came in and Carlos Palacios went out.
Substitutions benfica: at minute 46 A. Belotti came in and S. Dahl went out., at minute 61 K. Akturkoglu came in and Bruma went out., at minute 61 O. Kokcu came in and R. Sanches went out., at minute 77 G. Prestianni came in and A. Di Maria went out., at minute 90 L. Barreiro came in and Florentino went out.
The teams lined up as follows:
Boca Juniors
Titulares:
Benfica
Titulares:
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