The FIFA Club World Cup delivered a high-intensity Group C clash as Boca Juniors vs Benfica ended in a gripping 2-2 draw. Boca Juniors started strong and looked set for a win, but Benficaâs late surge denied them the full three points.
Miguel Merentiel opened the scoring in the 21st minute, putting Boca Juniors ahead with a clinical finish. Just six minutes later, Rodrigo Battaglia found the net, extending their lead to 2-0 and boosting hopes of a comfortable win for the Argentine side.
However, the momentum began to shift just before halftime. Benficaâs Ăngel Di MarĂa pulled one back in injury time of the first half, narrowing the gap and re-energizing the Portuguese side. The second half saw a tense battle, with both teams pushing for the next goal.
In the 84th minute, NicolĂĄs Otamendi leveled the match for Benfica with a powerful header, completing a remarkable comeback. The final whistle confirmed a 2-2 draw, with both teams sharing points in one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament so far.
The result keeps the Group C standings wide open, with Boca Juniors and Benfica still in contention for a place in the knockout rounds of the FIFA Club World Cup.
