After an impressive start at the Club World Cup with a thumping 10-0 win over Auckland City, Bayern Munich will look to continue to showcase their attacking prowess. Although Harry Kane didn’t score, it was a ruthless display from his fellow offensive player, Jamal Musiala, as he grabbed a hat-trick.
One partnership that is worth looking for is that of Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah, who made his club debut following a switch from Bayer Leverkusen to Bayern Munich.
The Bavarians have faced Boca Juniors once before, winning 1-0 in the 2001 Intercontinental Cup, and they remain unbeaten against South American sides in recent global competitions.
Bayern’s recent form has been strong, as the German champions have won five of their previous six games in all competitions.
Boca Juniors, managed by Miguel Ángel Russo, qualified for the tournament through the rankings pathway despite not winning the Copa Libertadores in the past four years. The Argentine giants, with six Libertadores titles, are one of South America’s most decorated clubs.
Boca’s recent form has been poor, as they are now winless in five games in all competitions. Their lack of recent international success and a 1-0 loss to Bayern, as recorded by our football stats, in their only prior meeting could weigh heavily.
The Xeneizes are known for their aggressive style and passionate fanbase, which is expected to make Hard Rock Stadium feel like home, given Miami’s large South American community. Yet, their defensive organisation will be tested against Bayern’s relentless attack. No clean sheets in four games illustrate their vulnerabilities against top-tier opposition.
Bayern have won four of their last five matches at neutral venues in international competitions, while Boca have struggled on the road, securing just two victories in their last six away games across all competitions. The Germans’ superior squad depth and tournament experience make them the clear favourites, but Boca’s physicality could pose problems if Bayern’s defence falters.
Bayern Munich FIFA Club World Cup form:
Bayern Munich Form (All Competitions):
Boca Juniors FIFA Club World Cup form:
Boca Juniors Form (All Competitions):
Team News
Bayern Munich could see the return of offensive player Jamal Musiala into the starting XI after being named on the bench in their opening match against the New Zealand giants. Aleksandar Pavlović is likely to feature in midfield alongside Joshua Kimmich. Harry Kane is certain to lead the line with Kingsley Coman and Michael Olise on the wings.
For Boca Juniors, Ayrton Costa is expected to start in defence to counter Bayern’s firepower. Midfielders Thomas Belmonte and Rodrigo Battaglia will be crucial in breaking up Bayern’s rhythm, while goalkeeper Augustin Marchesin’s experience could prove vital.
Captain Edinson Cavani is likely to miss out through a calf injury. Ander Herrera and Nicolas Figal are suspended after receiving red cards in their opening game. Russo is likely to set up with a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasising physicality and quick transitions.
Bayern Munich Possible Starting Lineup:
Neuer; Boey, Upamecano, Tah, Guerreiro; Kimmich, Pavlović; Olise, Musiala, Coman; Kane
Boca Juniors Possible Starting Lineup:
Marchesin; Advíncula, Costa, Rojo, Blanco; Battaglia, Belmonte; Zenón, Velasco, Palacios; Merentiel
We Say: Bayern Munich 2-0 Boca Juniors
Boca Juniors’ aggressive style and passionate support may keep them competitive early, but Bayern Munich’s superior quality and attacking depth should overwhelm the Argentine side.
Expect Harry Kane to capitalise on Boca’s defensive lapses, while Bayern’s midfield, led by Musiala, controls the tempo. A clean sheet is possible if Bayern shore up their backline, but Boca’s physicality could make it a scrappy affair.
