In the high-stakes world of international club soccer, few rivalries are as electric as South America vs. Europe. And among South American giants, Boca Juniors hold a singular place—storied, gritty, and often defiant on the global stage.
From Tokyo to Abu Dhabi, the mythical team has clashed with the continent’s elite under glaring spotlights. These meetings have shaped legacies, ignited passions, and on more than one occasion, left Europe stunned.
As the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup gets underway, the question lingers louder: how many times has the Argentine powerhouse brought Europe to its knees? The answer isn’t just a number, it’s a tale of ambition and unforgettable nights.
Which European teams have Boca Juniors beaten?
As the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 unfolds, attention turns once again to the historical titans of global soccer. Among them, Boca Juniors stand out as a South American powerhouse with a rich international pedigree.
Martin Palermo of Boca Juniors in action during the Toyota Intercontinental Cup against Real Madrid in 2000. (Source: Shaun Botterill /Allsport)
But just how many times have Boca managed to defeat a European champion in a final recognized by FIFA? The answer: three times. All of them came in the era of the Intercontinental Cup, the predecessor of the FIFA Club World Cup.
While the popular club boasts six international titles recognized by FIFA, including Copa Libertadores and other CONMEBOL trophies, the number of wins against European teams in global finals has remained at that number so far…
- 1977 | Boca Juniors vs Borussia Mönchengladbach (5–2 on aggregate)
Boca’s first triumph over a European club dates back to the 1977 Intercontinental Cup, although it was played in 1978. The Argentine champions faced Borussia Mönchengladbach, who replaced Liverpool after the English side declined the invitation.
The first leg in Buenos Aires ended 2–2, but Boca delivered a stunning 3–0 performance in the second leg in Germany. The result sealed a 5–2 aggregate victory, securing their first world title and their first win over a European rival.
- 2000 | Boca Juniors vs Real Madrid (2–1)
In what is arguably the most iconic of Boca’s global victories, the Xeneizes faced Real Madrid in the 2000 Intercontinental Cup. Led by the likes of Figo, Roberto Carlos and Raúl, Madrid were favorites—but Martín Palermo had other plans.
The Argentine striker scored twice in the first six minutes, shocking the Spanish giants. Despite a goal from Roberto Carlos, Boca held on for a historic 2–1 victory in Tokyo.
- 2003 | Boca Juniors vs AC Milan (1–1, 3–1 on penalties)
Three years later, Boca returned to Tokyo for another showdown, this time against AC Milan, stacked with names like Kaká, Pirlo and Shevchenko. The match ended 1–1 in regular time, with goals from Jon Dahl Tomasson and Matías Donnet.
In the penalty shootout, Boca prevailed 3–1, with goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri saving the day. It marked Boca’s third and final victory over a European opponent in an official world club competition.
