Bayern Munich take on Boca Juniors in a crucial Matchday 2 fixture at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, but the absence of Thomas Müller and Jamal Musiala from the starting lineup has raised eyebrows among fans. With both teams needing a result to stay on track for the knockout stage, Bayern’s decision to bench two of their most creative attackers adds an unexpected twist to the group-stage showdown.
Neither Müller nor Musiala is believed to be carrying an injury, leading to speculation that head coach Vincent Kompany has opted for a tactical adjustment or is managing minutes in a demanding tournament schedule. The German champions boast considerable depth, but leaving two of their most experienced and dynamic playmakers on the bench is sure to prompt further scrutiny—especially if the match doesn’t go their way.
Kompany may look to introduce both players off the bench depending on how the match unfolds. Bayern began the tournament in dominant form, routing Auckland City 10–0, but Boca present a very different challenge with their organized backline and fierce competitive spirit.
How Boca Juniors enter the match
Boca Juniors come into this critical clash under pressure after a 2–2 draw with Benfica in their tournament opener. While they showed moments of promise, defensive lapses and missed opportunities proved costly. Now, with Bayern Munich looming, Boca must elevate their performance if they want to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
Edinson Cavani of Boca Juniors celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal during a Torneo Apertura Betano 2025 Group A match between Boca Juniors and Defensa y Justicia
Adding to the challenge is the absence of veteran striker Edinson Cavani. The Uruguayan star is sidelined after aggravating a previous calf injury, which has extended his recovery timeline. Although Cavani has been eager to return, he has not resumed full training with the squad. Boca’s medical staff remains hopeful he could be available for the final group-stage match against Auckland City on June 24.
see also
Where to watch Bayern vs Boca Juniors live in the USA: FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Confirmed lineups
Bayern Munich head into the match without Thomas Müller and Jamal Musiala in their starting XI—two key absences that immediately drew attention. Head coach Vincent Kompany has opted for a rotated squad, with an eye on managing player fitness amid a packed tournament schedule.
Bayern’s confirmed starting lineup: Manuel Neuer; Konrad Laimer, Jonathan Tah, Josip Stanišić, Raphaël Guerreiro; Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka; Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman; Harry Kane.
On the other side, Boca Juniors—missing Edinson Cavani up front—will line up as follows: Agustín Marchesín; Luis Advíncula, Lautaro Di Lollo, Nicolás Valentini, Lautaro Blanco; Rodrigo Battaglia, Esteban Rolón, Kevin Zenón; Alan Velasco, Carlos Palacios; Miguel Merentiel.
