The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 delivers another blockbuster group stage clash as Boca Juniors take on Benfica in a battle of South American power vs European finesse. Set to be played in the United States, this match promises end-to-end action and global attention.
Both clubs bring rich histories, passionate fanbases, and elite squads. As they meet for the first time in Club World Cup history, all eyes will be on this exciting fixture.
Match Information
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Match: Boca Juniors vs Benfica
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Competition: FIFA Club World Cup 2025 – Group Stage C
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Date: 17.06.2025
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Kick-off Time: 01:00
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Venue: Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, FL)
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Live Broadcast: FIFA+, FOX Sports, beIN Sports (depending on region)
Team Form & Match Context
Boca Juniors – Grit, History, and Ambition
Boca Juniors enter the Club World Cup after a strong campaign in the Copa Libertadores. Known for their aggressive style and never-say-die attitude, the Argentine giants will be eager to prove themselves on the world stage.
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Coach: Diego Martínez
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Key Players: Edinson Cavani, Marcos Rojo, Valentín Barco
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Recent Form: Solid defensive record with quick counter-attacking transitions
Boca’s passionate style and tactical discipline make them a dangerous opponent for any team, especially in knockout tournaments.
Benfica – European Flair and Technical Brilliance
Benfica arrive in top form after an impressive run in the UEFA Champions League and winning the Primeira Liga. Under Roger Schmidt, they play attractive football with sharp technical execution and intelligent positioning.
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Coach: Roger Schmidt
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Key Players: João Neves, Ángel Di María, Rafa Silva
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Recent Form: Dominant in possession, high pressing intensity
Benfica’s blend of youth and experience could prove key against Boca’s defensive resilience.
Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Boca could be heavily reliant on Miguel Merentiel, especially as he has either scored or assisted each of their last four goals (G2, A2). Vangelis Pavlidis netted 29 times in 53 appearances in 2024/25 for Benfica – five of his last seven scoring appearances saw him net the second goal of the game.
Benfica head into this summer’s tournament a little light on defensive talent as Tomás Araújo and Alexander Bah look set to miss at least some of the CWC through injury, but Boca arrive in the States with a near full-strength squad
Tactical Preview
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Boca Juniors: Expected to line up in a compact 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1, with emphasis on counterattacks and width.
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Benfica: Likely to control possession in a 4-2-3-1 system, exploiting spaces behind the lines.
Midfield control will be crucial, as both sides possess creative playmakers and wide threats.
Head-to-Head Record
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This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Boca Juniors and Benfica.
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Both clubs have rich histories in continental competition but haven’t faced off until now at global level.
Predicted Score:
Boca Juniors 1-2 Benfica
Expect a close encounter, but Benfica’s midfield control and European sharpness might just edge it.
Final Thoughts
The Boca Juniors vs Benfica showdown will not only be a battle between continents but also a showcase of football culture, passion, and international rivalry. With a place in the knockout stages on the line, this match is unmissable for global football fans.
