Showdown Confirmed! Boca's Battle Plan Revealed for Benfica Clash!

Attention, Xeneizes fans and global football followers! The moment everyone has been waiting for has arrived. Boca Juniors is just hours away from facing a highly demanding debut in the 2025 Club World Cup. Their first opponent will be the always competitive Benfica of Portugal, in what promises to be an electrifying clash that marks the start of Group C. The Argentine team arrives at this prestigious tournament with overflowing hope of excelling internationally, backed by a solid core of experienced players and some top-tier reinforcements who have raised the squad's level. For this crucial opening match, the coaching staff has opted for a balanced lineup that aims to combine defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and lethal speed in attack.

The confirmation of the starting XI generates great anticipation, as it will allow fans and analysts to anticipate the strategy Boca will implement to counter a strong European opponent. The first impression in a tournament of this magnitude is vital, and Boca knows it needs to start on the right foot to dream of advancing to the knockout stages.

The coach's selection reflects a clear intention to strike a balance between defensive security and the ability to create danger in the opponent's box. The confirmed lineup to face Benfica is as follows:

• Goalkeeper: The goal will be guarded by Sergio Romero. His experience, reflexes, and leadership between the posts are fundamental for providing security to the backline. 'Chiquito' is a guarantee in high-pressure matches.
• Defense: The back four will be made up of solid players. On the right flank, Luis Advíncula will provide his speed and experience in both attacking and defensive phases. The central defensive pair will be Cristian Lema and Marcos Rojo, a combination of physical strength and leadership, key to containing the Portuguese attack. On the left, Frank Fabra will look to constantly push forward and be an attacking option, without neglecting his defensive duties.
• Midfield: The heart of the team will consist of three midfielders with well-defined roles. Ezequiel Fernández will be in charge of winning back possession and distributing the ball, bringing dynamism and good passing. Alongside him, Kevin Zenón will take on a more creative role, with his dribbling ability, vision, and knack for getting into the box. As a pivot or deeper midfielder, Pol Fernández is expected to provide balance, experience, and clean ball distribution.
• Attack: The attacking trio promises speed and goals. On the right wing, Luca Langoni will bring unpredictability, bursts of pace, and shooting ability. On the left wing, Cristian Medina will offer his skill, ball control, and ability to link up with the midfield. The central striker will be Miguel Merentiel, a forward who guarantees hard work, pressing, and a proven goal-scoring instinct.

This lineup suggests a Boca team that will look to be compact in defense, with a hardworking midfield that recovers and distributes, and a fast, direct attack to exploit any spaces left by Benfica.

A debut in the Club World Cup is always a test to measure a team's level outside its own continent. The selection of this lineup by Boca's coaching staff points to a clear strategy against an opponent of Benfica's stature.

• Containing Benfica's Aerial and Offensive Play: With Lema and Rojo at the heart of the defense, Boca aims for solidity to counter the physical power and aerial game that characterize many European teams. Anticipation and good positioning will be crucial.
• Speed in Transitions: The presence of Advíncula and Fabra on the wings, combined with the explosiveness of Langoni and Merentiel in attack, suggests that Boca will try to capitalize on every recovered ball to launch quick transitions and surprise the opponent's defense.
• The Midfield Battle: The midfield trio will have the fundamental task of winning possession, cutting Benfica's passing lanes, and serving as the first defensive filter. 'Equi' Fernández's ball-winning ability and Zenón's capacity to link up will be vital for building dangerous plays.
• The Role of the Forwards: Merentiel, as the No. 9, will not only have the mission to score but also to wear down opposing center-backs and press Benfica's build-up play. Langoni and Medina, for their part, will look to create one-on-one situations and spaces out wide.

This match is not only Boca's debut in the 2025 Club World Cup but an opportunity to reaffirm their international ambition. The confirmed lineup reflects the coaching staff's confidence in a group of players that blends experience with youthful flair. Fans expect the team to show their usual Xeneize grit and take a firm step on this path to global glory. The kick-off will mark the beginning of an exciting adventure for Boca Juniors.