Flamboyant Showdown: Boca Juniors and Benfica Clash in Thrilling 2-2 Draw at FIFA Club World Cup

Boca Juniors and Benfica engaged in a captivating match at the FIFA Club World Cup in Miami, with both teams sharing the spoils in a 2-2 draw. The game was marked by intense drama, featuring three red cards and numerous fouls. A predominantly Argentine crowd at Hard Rock Stadium witnessed Boca Juniors initially dominate, only for Benfica to mount an impressive comeback.

The match began with Boca Juniors taking a strong lead, thanks to goals from Miguel Merentiel in the 21st minute and Rodrigo Battaglia in the 27th. However, Benfica's fortunes changed with Ángel Di María's penalty kick in first-half stoppage time following a VAR-assisted decision. This goal reignited Benfica's hopes, and they eventually equalized in the 84th minute through Nicolás Otamendi's header from a corner kick.

The encounter was marred by disciplinary issues, with Boca's Ander Herrera receiving a red card from the bench for protesting a penalty decision, Benfica's Andrea Belotti being sent off for violent conduct, and Boca's Jorge Figal also seeing red late in the game. Despite the chaotic nature of the match, both teams earned a point each in Group C, setting the stage for further competition in the tournament.

Benfica's coach, Bruno Lage, expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, stating they deserved the draw. The match highlighted the passion and intensity of both teams, with Boca Juniors enjoying strong support from the crowd but ultimately failing to capitalize on their early advantage.