Bayern Munich Progress to Knockout Stage After Weathering Late Challenge from Boca

Bayern Munich secured their advancement to the knockout stage of the FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) courtesy of a late goal from Michael Olise, clinching a gritty 2-1 win against CA Boca Juniors in Miami.

Following a record-breaking victory against Auckland City in their opening Group C match, Bayern exuded confidence from the outset at the Hard Rock Stadium.

The Bavarians believed they had taken the lead in the eighth minute as Olise’s corner navigated through the box and nestled into the far corner. However, VAR stepped in to disallow the goal, determining that Serge Gnabry had obstructed Boca’s goalkeeper, Agustin Marchesin.

Unfazed, Vincent Kompany’s side did not take long to find the net as Harry Kane capitalised on a loose ball in the box, finishing with aplomb from 12 yards.

Bayern had the chance to extend their lead shortly after, but Kingsley Coman inexplicably squandered a clear opportunity from close range after excellent play by Gnabry.

As halftime approached, opportunities continued to arise—Kevin Zenon unleashed a powerful shot that was expertly blocked by Manuel Neuer, while at the opposite end, Kane sent a curling free-kick onto the roof of the net.

Having failed to secure a win in their last five outings (D3, L2), Boca knew they needed a strong start to the second half.

Miguel Angel Russo’s team remained industrious despite Bayern’s continued possession dominance, and they were rightly rewarded in the 66th minute by a stroke of individual brilliance.

Alan Velasco delivered an astute pass to an advancing Miguel Merentiel, who took one touch to evade Josip Stanisic before elegantly slotting a finish past Neuer to equalise.

This set the stage for an engaging final 20 minutes in Florida as both teams sought that crucial third goal.

Bayern’s superior quality ultimately shone through with seven minutes left, as Kane’s assist in the box was swiftly tucked away by Olise, marking his third goal in the tournament.

Despite relentless efforts, Boca could not find a second equaliser, allowing Kompany’s side to comfortably see out the final moments and extend their unbeaten streak across all competitions to nine matches (W6, D3).

________________________________

Sponsored:

FIFA Club World Cup – Every Game Free, exclusively on DAZN.

Sign up here to start streaming.

________________________________