Benfica secured a historic victory against Bayern Munich in the FIFA Club World Cup Group C finale, defeating the German giants 1-0 in challenging conditions in Charlotte, United States. The win ensures Benfica advances to the knockout stage as Group C winners, while Bayern also progresses as runners-up.
The decisive goal came early in the first half, with Andreas Schjelderup finding the net for the Portuguese side in the 13th minute. The goal was set up by an excellent move initiated by Angel Di Maria, who found Fredrik Aursnes on the right flank. Aursnes’s low cross bypassed several players, reaching Schjelderup who finished coolly from 15 yards into the bottom corner.
Conditions at Bank of America Stadium were sweltering, with temperatures around 36C (97F) heavily influencing play. Two cooling breaks were necessary throughout the match to allow players respite from the heat, a factor acknowledged by Bayern manager Vincent Kompany as impacting the game’s fluidity.
Despite dominating possession (73%), Bayern struggled to break down a resolute Benfica defense and an inspired goalkeeper, Anatoliy Trubin. Bayern made seven changes to their starting lineup initially but introduced key players Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Joshua Kimmich at halftime in an effort to turn the tide.
Bayern improved significantly in the second half and thought they had found an equalizer when Kimmich struck powerfully from 25 yards. However, the goal was disallowed after a VAR review, with Kane judged to be in an offside position and obstructing Benfica goalkeeper Trubin’s view.
Trubin was instrumental in preserving Benfica’s lead, delivering a superb performance, especially in the second half. He made several critical saves, including a sharp reflex stop from Aleksandar Pavlovic and denying Leroy Sane in a one-on-one situation. Di Maria also earned praise, receiving a warm reception from fans during his late substitution.
This 1-0 result marks Benfica’s first-ever competitive win against Bayern Munich. It also means Benfica finishes Group C with 7 points, while Bayern finishes with 6.
In the other Group C match, Auckland City, the tournament’s only amateur club, achieved a memorable 1-1 draw against Argentinian side Boca Juniors. While this didn’t change the top two qualifiers, it was a significant achievement for the New Zealand team.
Looking ahead to the last 16, Benfica’s win means they will face Chelsea, the Group D runners-up. Bayern Munich, finishing second, is set to play Flamengo, who won Group D. Both Portuguese and German clubs now prepare for the next stage of the tournament.
