Boca Juniors, Benfica Draw 2-2 with Three Red Cards in Club World Cup Miami

Boca Juniors and Benfica played a fiercely contested 2-2 draw in their Club World Cup Group C match, marked by intense physicality and multiple red cards. Boca initially led 2-0 with goals from Miguel Merentiel and Rodrigo Battaglia, but Benfica, down to 10 men after Andrea Belotti's red card, fought back with a penalty by Angel Di Maria and a late header from Nicolas Otamendi, who was instrumental in their comeback. The match saw heated moments, including Boca's Ander Herrera receiving a red card despite being substituted, and Boca finishing with nine men after Jorge Figal's dismissal. Boca's passionate supporters created a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of their home stadium, the Bombonera, at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium. The game highlighted contrasting styles, with Benfica dominating possession and Boca employing aggressive tactics, embodying the Argentine concept of 'viveza criolla,' a cunning approach to winning. Both teams now face Bayern Munich and Auckland City in the group, with their progression likely depending on goal differences against the latter.