Charlotte, U.S.A:
Benfica secured a historic 1–0 victory over Bayern Munich on June 24 in Charlotte, N.C., claiming top spot in Group C and advancing to the Round of 16.
- Goal of the match: Andreas Schjelderup headed in from Fredrik Aursnes’ cross in the 13th minute the club’s first-ever win against Bayern in official competition .
- Bruno Lage’s reaction: Benfica’s coach praised his team’s aggression and mental resilience, urging belief in their progress and warning against complacency ahead of their last‑16 clash with either Chelsea or Espérance de Tunis.
- Bayern’s strategy: Vincent Kompany rotated heavily, resting key players in the intense heat. Although Bayern advanced as runners‑up, the defeat cost them group supremacy and a more favorable knockout fixture.
Full-Time in Charlotte.#SLBFCB #FIFACWC pic.twitter.com/3CHRCuUcpV
— FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) June 24, 2025
Auckland City Hold Boca, Defy Expectations:
In Nashville, Auckland City drew 1–1 with Boca Juniors on June 24, exiting the tournament but earning global respect.
Match events:
Boca opened the scoring with an own goal from goalie Nathan Garrow off a corner in the 26th minute.
Christian Gray, a trainee teacher, equalized in the 52nd minute with a header off Jerson Lagos’ corner.
Weather interruption: Lightning and torrential rain halted play for nearly 50 minutes at 1–1. By the time play resumed, Benfica had clinched qualification, sealing Boca’s fate.
Underdog story: Reports praised Auckland City’s “heroic” and “remarkable” display amateur players from trades and teaching professions showcasing immense heart on a global stage.
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Group C Standings & Knockout Paths:
| Position | Team | Points | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Benfica | 7 | Advanced – vs Chelsea or Espérance |
| 2 | Bayern Munich | 6 | Advanced – vs Flamengo |
| 3 | Boca Juniors | 2 | Eliminated |
| 4 | Auckland City | 1 | Eliminated |
Benfica faces either Chelsea or Espérance in the round of 16, Bayern will meet Flamengo
Major Takeaways:
Benfica’s revival: This win marks a resurgence for the Portuguese side, combining early intensity, tactical discipline, and mental toughness Lage’s leadership is earning plaudits .
Bayern’s missteps: Heat and rotation backfired. Kompany’s strategy preserved fitness but sacrificed the group lead, setting up a tougher knockout against Flamengo .
Auckland’s impact: Their draw is the narrative highlight of the tournament already eliminated, they still captured hearts and spotlight.
Up Next:
Round of 16 matchups:
Benfica vs Chelsea or Espérance de Tunis
Bayern Munich vs Flamengo
Auckland City & Boca Juniors are out, but their performances have left an enduring legacy.
