The Club World Cup showcased a thrilling lineup of matches on Friday, notably impacting the standings in Groups C and D. Both Bayern Munich and Flamengo positioned themselves well for the knockout stage as they head into the final group matches next week.
In a commanding performance in Auckland, Benfica defeated Boca Juniors, who nearly made a stunning comeback against Bayern Munich after a strong showing in South America. However, Bayern regained control to secure their lead.
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In Group D, Flamengo delivered an impressive upset against Chelsea, rallying back after trailing 1-0 early in the match. Additionally, Es Tunis achieved an unexpected victory over LAFC, knocking the MLS team out of the knockout phase.
Friday’s Club World Cup Results
Benfica 6, Auckland City 0
Following a weather delay in Orlando, Benfica dominated Auckland City with a 6-0 win. Although Auckland held them back during the first half, Angel Di Maria found the net just before halftime to put Benfica ahead. In the second half, they scored five more goals, with Vangelis Pavlidis and Renato Sanches netting in the 53rd and 63rd minutes, and Leandro Berreiro adding two more in the 76th and 78th. Di Maria capped off the rout with a penalty in stoppage time.
Flamengo 3, Chelsea 1
Chelsea, fresh off a 2-0 victory over LAFC, struggled against Flamengo in their second match. Although Pedro Neto scored within the first 13 minutes, Flamengo bounced back with goals from Bruno Henrique in the 62nd, Danilo in the 65th, and Wallace Jan in the 83rd, securing a top position in Group D with two wins and six points.
ES Tunis 1, LAFC 0
Es Tunis kept things exciting with a close 1-0 win over LAFC, breaking the deadlock in the 70th minute with a goal from Youcef Belaïli. Although LAFC attempted to equalize after being awarded a penalty, Dennis Boanga’s effort was expertly saved by Tunisian goalkeeper Besil Ben.
Bayern Munich 2, Boca Juniors 1
Boca Juniors fought hard to maintain South America’s presence in the tournament but fell short against Bayern Munich. Harry Kane put Bayern ahead early in the 18th minute, and although Boca equalized with a goal from Miguel Melentiel in the 66th minute, Bayern responded quickly and reclaimed the lead with a goal from Michael Oris in the 84th minute, securing their position at the top of Group C.
Highlights of the Day
Current Group Standings
Rank | Group C | Record (WDL) | Goal Difference | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Bayern Munich | 2-0-0 | 11 | 6 |
2 | Benfica | 1-1-0 | 6 | 4 |
3 | Boca Juniors | 0-1-1 | -1 | 1 |
4 | Auckland City | 0-0-2 | -16 | 0 |
Rank | Group D | Record (WDL) | Goal Difference | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Flamengo | 2-0-0 | 4 | 6 |
2 | Chelsea | 1-0-1 | 0 | 3 |
3 | Es Tunis | 1-0-1 | -1 | 3 |
4 | LAFC | 0-0-2 | -3 | 0 |
Tomorrow’s Schedule: Saturday, June 21st
Group F: Mamelody Sundowns vs. Dortmund at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati. 12 PM on DAZN
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Group E: Inter Milan vs. Urawa Reds at Lumenfield in Seattle. 3 PM on DAZN
Group F: Fluminense vs. Ulsan at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. 6 PM on DAZN
Group E: River Plate vs. Monterrey at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. 9 PM on DAZN/TBS/TruTV
As soccer fans, these results highlight the competitive nature of the Club World Cup, showcasing emerging talents and legendary clubs alike. It also serves as a reminder of the escalating rivalry between MLS teams and international clubs, paving the way for future clashes that could redefine the sport’s landscape.
