Benfica Stun Bayern Munich 1-0 to Top Club World Cup Group C
Andreas Schjelderup’s early goal sent Benfica to the top of Group C at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, as they defeated Bayern Munich 1-0 on a scorching Tuesday.
The Norwegian teenager struck in the 13th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to give the Portuguese club an advantage they would hold onto for the rest of the match. With temperatures soaring to 97 degrees Fahrenheit (about 36 degrees Celsius), both teams struggled, but it was Benfica who adapted better to the challenging conditions.
Bayern Munich, who dropped to second place in the group with the loss, looked out of sorts from the start. Fielding only four of the players who started in their victory over Boca Juniors on Friday night, the German champions couldn’t find their rhythm. Despite introducing star players like Harry Kane and Joshua Kimmich at halftime through five substitutions, Bayern failed to breach Benfica’s organized defense.
“We didn’t play our best game today,” admitted Bayern’s coach. “But we’ll regroup and focus on the knockout stages.”
The loss marked Bayern’s first defeat of the tournament, raising questions about their form heading into the crucial stages later this week.
Auckland City Hold Boca Juniors to a Draw
In the other Group C match, amateur team Auckland City pulled off a surprising 1-1 draw against Boca Juniors. Christian Gray scored Auckland’s first goal of the tournament early in the second half, just before a 50-minute suspension due to lightning in the area.
Boca Juniors initially took the lead in the 26th minute when Lautaro Di Lollo’s header hit the post and ricocheted off Auckland’s goalkeeper Nathan Garrow for an own goal. Gray leveled the score in the 52nd minute with a header from a corner kick by Jerson Lagos.
The match was intense, with Boca outshooting Auckland 40-3, but Garrow’s ten saves kept the Argentinian side at bay. A potential winning goal for Boca was overturned by VAR due to a handball, leaving them frustrated.
The crowd at Geodis Park endured not only the humid conditions but also the five weather delays that have plagued the tournament’s group stage.
Looking Ahead
With the group stage concluded, Benfica tops Group C, while Bayern Munich advances as runners-up. Boca Juniors are eliminated from contention. The knockout stages promise exciting matchups as teams vie for the prestigious Club World Cup title.
Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the next round, hoping for more thrilling performances and fewer weather interruptions.
