The FIFA Club World Cup continued to deliver surprises and high-stakes drama on Tuesday, with underdog Auckland City holding football powerhouse Boca Juniors to a shocking 1-1 draw.
Meanwhile, English giants Chelsea advanced to the knockout stage with a dominant win, and Benfica made headlines by topping Bayern Munich in a historic Group C upset.
Benfica Edges Bayern to Lead Group C
In Charlotte, Portuguese club Benfica stunned Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich with a hard-fought 1-0 victory. The match’s only goal came early when Norwegian forward Andreas Schjelderup finished a pinpoint cross from Fredrik Aursnes.
Although Bayern enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, Benfica’s organized defense repelled multiple attacks. Coach Bruno Lage praised his squad’s discipline, calling the win “historic.”
Benfica now leads Group C and will meet Chelsea in the next round, while Bayern, finishing second, prepares for a clash with Brazilian giants Flamengo.
Auckland City’s Heroic Draw Against Boca Juniors
The most memorable moment of the day came in Nashville, where New Zealand’s semi-professional side Auckland City held Argentine titans Boca Juniors to a 1-1 draw.
Boca took an early lead thanks to an Auckland own goal, but the Kiwi club responded courageously. Midfielder Christian Gray, a full-time schoolteacher, headed in an equalizer from a Jerson Lagos corner, sparking jubilant celebrations.
Goalkeeper Nathan Garrow kept Auckland in the game with several key saves. Though both teams exit the tournament, Auckland leaves with pride, having made a mark against one of South America’s elite clubs.
Chelsea Cruises Past Esperance in Group D
Chelsea confirmed their place in the knockout stage with a clinical 3-0 win over Tunisia’s Esperance in Philadelphia. Premier League newcomers Tosin Adarabioyo, Liam Delap, and Tyrique George each found the back of the net, while midfielder Enzo Fernandez played a pivotal role by assisting the first two goals. Chelsea finishes second in Group D, three points ahead of Esperance, who are now eliminated.
Flamengo and LAFC Share Points in Group D Finale
Already assured of qualification, Flamengo wrapped up their group stage campaign with a 1-1 draw against Los Angeles FC in Orlando.
Denis Bouanga gave LAFC the lead, but Flamengo quickly responded through Wallace Yan. Flamengo tops Group D with seven points, while LAFC exits the tournament without a win.
The knockout stage now promises even more thrilling matchups as global clubs clash for Club World Cup glory.