The inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025 has kicked off in the United States, delivering early drama and significant talking points. Monday’s fixtures saw Chelsea secure a comfortable victory over Los Angeles FC, while Boca Juniors and Benfica served up a fiery, goal-laden classic.
Chelsea Clinches Opening Win Against Los Angeles FC
Chelsea began their FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a composed 2-0 victory over MLS side Los Angeles FC in their Group D opener at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Despite a somewhat sparse crowd of 22,137 in the 71,000-capacity stadium, the Blues displayed their quality from the outset.
Pedro Neto opened the scoring in the 34th minute, latching onto a precise pass from Nicolas Jackson and expertly finding the back of the net. Chelsea maintained control throughout the match, dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities. The decisive second goal came in the 79th minute, with new signing Liam Delap providing an assist for Enzo Fernández, who calmly tapped in to seal the win. While the game had its moments of contention, Chelsea’s overall performance showcased their intent for the tournament.
Boca Juniors and Benfica Play Out Heated 2-2 Draw
In one of the most enthralling matches of the tournament so far, Boca Juniors and Benfica battled to a dramatic 2-2 draw in Group C at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The encounter was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring four goals and three red cards.
Boca Juniors, spurred on by a vociferous home-like support, took an early lead. Miguel Merentiel netted in the 21st minute after a brilliant low cross, and Rodrigo Battaglia doubled their advantage just six minutes later with a close-range header from a corner.
However, Benfica mounted a spirited comeback. Ángel Di María pulled one back from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time after a VAR review. The second half saw increased intensity, with Benfica’s Andrea Belotti controversially sent off in the 72nd minute for a high boot. Despite being a man down, Benfica found an equalizer in the 84th minute through captain Nicolás Otamendi, who powered home a header from a corner. The drama wasn’t over, as Boca Juniors were also reduced to nine men when Jorge Figal received a red card in the 88th minute. Ultimately, neither side could find a winner in a truly heated and memorable contest.
