SL Benfica launched their FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ campaign with a pulsating 2-2 draw against CA Boca Juniors, staging a remarkable comeback in front of a roaring crowd in Miami.
This Group C clash was more than just a meeting between two storied clubs—it was a clash of continents, cultures, and football legacies. Boca Juniors, six-time Copa Libertadores champions and South America’s pride, faced Portuguese giants Benfica, twice European champions and one of the continent’s oldest clubs. In the end, it took two of Argentina’s most iconic sons, Ángel Di María and Nicolás Otamendi, to inspire a resilient fightback.
🇵🇹 Benfica Fight Back with Argentine Firepower
Playing in the stadium where they helped Argentina win the 2024 Copa América, Di María and Otamendi showed they still had more to give. Down 2–0 and with a man sent off, Benfica were facing a nightmare start to the tournament. But Di María calmly converted a penalty to breathe life into the contest before halftime, and Otamendi rose high to thunder home a late header and level the score.
Despite the shared nationality with their opponents, the Argentine duo showed no hesitation in their commitment to Benfica’s cause.
“Everyone knows I’m a River Plate fan. I celebrate a goal like any opponent. These are goals that should be celebrated,” said Otamendi, who let out a fiery celebration after scoring against Boca—his boyhood club’s fiercest rivals.
🤝 Class and Respect
In contrast, Di María was more subdued in his response after his goal, showing reverence for Boca’s fans.
“I felt the affection of Boca’s fans. If they had insulted me, it would be understandable—I’m wearing a different shirt. It’s football, you understand,” Di María explained. “No, I didn’t ask for forgiveness with the wave, I just greeted my family who were up there.”
Di María, who will leave Benfica after the Club World Cup to return to Rosario Central, continues to play at an elite level at age 37. Otamendi was full of praise for his longtime international teammate.
“He’s a legend in Argentina and in world football. He’ll get a standing ovation wherever he plays when he returns home,” Otamendi said. “I’m happy for him—he deserves it.”
⚽ A Night to Remember
For Benfica’s rising talents, playing alongside legends like Di María is more than a learning opportunity—it’s a privilege.
“Of course, he is a big player with iconic status. It’s a privilege to share a dressing room and a pitch with him,” said 21-year-old midfielder Samuel Dahl. “It’s also special that it was two Argentinians who came through in such a big match.”
The game had it all—tempo, passion, goals, and a late twist. Boca looked set to claim a famous win over their European opponents, but Benfica’s grit and experience turned the tide. The result keeps Group C wide open heading into the second round of matches.
🔜 What’s Next?
Benfica will now shift their focus to Auckland City FC, who suffered a crushing 10-0 defeat to Bayern München. While Benfica are clear favorites, Dahl noted that focus and professionalism will be key.
“It’ll be a good experience. Of course, we saw the result against Bayern, and we’ll have to do the same,” he said.
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ marks the first time the competition has been expanded to 32 teams, resembling a traditional World Cup format. Hosted across cities in the United States, the tournament pits domestic champions and elite clubs from around the world against one another in a global football festival.
With its thrilling opener and legendary performances, Benfica have already set the tone for what could be a memorable campaign.
