• Benfica complete epic comeback against Boca Juniors

• Both goals were scored by iconic Argentinian players

• River Plate fan Otamendi vociferously celebrates equalizer

The last time Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi played together at the Hard Rock Stadium, they helped Argentina win the 2024 CONMEBOL Copa America final.

On their return to the South Florida venue, the star duo teamed up to inspire SL Benfica to an exhilarating comeback draw against CA Boca Juniors to open their FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ campaign.

In one of the most thrilling games of the global showpiece so far, Di Maria coolly converted a first-half penalty and Otamendi scored with a powerful header to rescue a point for 10-man Benfica after they had gone two goals down.

It did not go unnoticed that Otamendi — a die-hard CA River Plate fan — could hardly contain his emotions after scoring the late equaliser.

"Everyone knows I'm a River Plate fan. I celebrate a goal like any opponent. These are goals that should be celebrated, and that's how it was for me," Otamendi said.

"The fact that we're both Argentine doesn't have any special significance; each of these teams and players are from different parts of the world, and we're competing to advance to the next round."

Di Maria, for his part, said of his meek celebrations: "I felt the affection of Boca's fans. If they would have insulted me, it would be understandable. I'm wearing a different shirt; it's football, you understand. No, I did not ask for sorry (with a wave), I just greeted my family who were up there."

For Benfica team-mate Samuel Dahl, the fact that two Argentinians broke Boca Juniors hearts made the comeback "a little more special."

There was a consensus, though, about the enduring brilliance of 37-year-old Di Maria, who is leaving Benfica after the FIFA Club World Cup to return home to Rosario Central.

"We know the quality Di Maria has; he's a legend in Argentina and international football. He's coming back to Argentina. I wish him the best," Otamendi added.

"He'll get a standing ovation at every stadium he goes to. I think he'll enjoy it to the fullest with his family, and I'm happy."

Dahl added: "Of course, he is a big player with an iconic status with the team. It is a privilege to share a dressing room and be on the same pitch as him."

Next up for Benfica is a game against New Zealand amateurs Auckland City FC, who were beaten 10-0 by Bundesliga giants FC Bayern München in their opener.

"It will be a good experience. Of course we saw the result against Bayern and we will have to do the same," Dahl noted. (FIFA)

Update news