Benfica & Boca Juniors share chaos in Miami thriller

In a pulsating FIFA Club World Cup opener, Benfica fought back from two goals down to snatch a 2-2 draw against Boca Juniors in a match that saw three red cards, VAR drama, and late chaos at Hard Rock Stadium.

Boca’s fast start stuns Benfica

The Argentine side, backed by a lively majority of the 55,574 fans in Miami, struck first in the 21st minute when Miguel Merentiel slotted past Benfica keeper Anatoliy Trubin.

Just six minutes later, Rodrigo Battaglia powered in a header from Ayrton Costa’s corner, doubling Boca’s lead and sending their supporters into delirium.

VAR controversy & Di María’s ice-cold penalty

The game turned just before half-time when referee César Ramos awarded Benfica a penalty after VAR spotted Carlos Palacios’ knee into Nicolás Otamendi.

Boca’s protests turned furious, leading to Ander Herrera’s red card for dissent.

Veteran winger Ángel Di María stepped up and sent Agustín Marchesín the wrong way with a composed spot-kick, cutting the deficit to 2-1 at the break.

Red card chaos & Benfica’s equaliser

The second half descended into further madness when Benfica substitute Andrea Belotti was dismissed in the 72nd minute for a high boot on Costa, levelling the sides at 10 men each.

With Boca’s defence momentarily switching off, Otamendi – who had won the earlier penalty – rose highest to thunder home Orkun Kökçü’s corner, completing Benfica’s comeback.

Late dismissal & frantic finish

Boca’s discipline collapsed in the 88th minute when Jorge Figal saw red for a reckless studs-up challenge on Florentino Luís, reducing them to nine men.

Despite the numerical advantage, Benfica couldn’t find a winner, leaving both teams to settle for a thrilling 2-2 draw in a match that had everything.

What’s Next?

Benfica now face Auckland City FC in their next Group C clash on Friday, 20 June, while Boca Juniors take on Bayern Munich in a must-watch encounter on Saturday, 21 June. The result leaves the group wide open heading into matchday two.