Although the match between Boca Juniors and Auckland City was briefly suspended due to weather conditions, the Argentine side entered Matchday 3 of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 aiming to secure a place in the Round of 16. Their path was never going to be easy, as qualification depended on other results, but hope remained alive. However, the outcome of the Benfica vs. Bayern Munich match ultimately altered Boca’s standing in Group C.
For the first time in their history, Benfica defeated Bayern Munich 1–0. That result sent both the Portuguese and German sides into the Round of 16, officially eliminating Boca Juniors from the tournament. With the loss, the Argentine side became the first CONMEBOL team to be eliminated in the opening round of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
Boca Juniors’ elimination from the competition marks a disappointing chapter for the team, yet it highlights an intriguing development under the leadership of head coach Miguel Angel Russo. Just a month into his tenure, Russo has forged a highly competitive squad, earning admiration from renowned head coaches like Pep Guardiola for his team’s gritty and hard-hitting style of play.
Despite Russo’s promising start, Boca Juniors stumbled in Group C, failing to secure a victory against Auckland City, a feat their rivals Benfica and Bayern Munich achieved convincingly. While the team shows signs of progress, they remain a work in progress, struggling to reach their full potential. Key players, such as Carlos Palacios, are still searching for their ideal roles within the squad, underscoring the challenges that lie ahead in their quest for excellence.
Players of Boca Juniors huddles prior to the Torneo Apertura Betano 2025 quarterfinals match between Boca Juniors and Independiente at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on May 19, 2025 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Boca Juniors’ failure deepens slump after a challenging season
Since becoming team president, Juan Roman Riquelme has struggled to stabilize the sporting project. Unfortunately, this inconsistency has left the project seemingly adrift. He has now turned to Miguel Angel Russo, his third coaching choice since December 2023. Although Russo has just arrived, he must quickly find his footing. Steering the team forward amidst these challenges will be crucial for success.
see also
FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group C standings: Final table with Bayern Munich, Benfica, Boca, and Auckland City in Matchday 3
Despite Boca Juniors’ struggles, there are still reasons for optimism. Miguel Merentiel and Rodrigo Battaglia have delivered standout performances, giving fans hope for a turnaround. Head coach Miguel Angel Russo, who previously led the club to a Copa Libertadores title, brings the experience needed to rebuild. He is working to establish his identity, as shown in Boca’s strong displays against European sides like Benfica and Bayern Munich.
