Di Maria and Otamendi force Boca Juniors to draw in Club World Cup

The Group C match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup between Boca Juniors and Benfica ended in a 2-2 draw at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami — marking the conclusion of the first matchday.

The Argentine team initially took a two-goal lead through Miguel Merentiel in the 21st minute from Lautaro Blanco’s cross, followed by Rodrigo Battaglia’s goal five minutes later from a corner kick situation.

The match momentum shifted near the end of first half when Nicolas Otamendi was fouled in the penalty box — giving Angel Di Maria an opportunity to successfully convert from the spot in injury time.