New Zealand amateur team Auckland City will be exiting the Club World Cup after heavy defeats against Bayern Munich and Benfica. They will now face a tough challenge against Boca Juniors.
To advance to the next round, Boca Juniors must outscore Benfica and will need to play aggressively against Auckland City in Nashville.
Team news
Goalkeeper Nathan Garrow, who made 10 saves in Auckland's last match, is likely to retain his spot after the 6-0 loss to Benfica. On the other hand, Boca Juniors are facing defensive issues with Ayrton Costa injured and Nicolas Figal suspended.
Coach Miguel Russo is expected to pair up Lautaro Di Lollo and debutant Marco Pellegrini in defense. Marcus Rojo is not a preferred choice, and Ander Herrera is also suspended for the upcoming match.
The stats
Auckland City has conceded a total of 16 goals in two games and faced 63 shots while only managing five attempts themselves. They have also given away three penalties so far.
Interestingly, Auckland City has not received any bookings yet, whereas Boca Juniors have accumulated five yellow cards and two red cards. Boca Juniors have won only one of their last six matches.
Prediction
Boca Juniors have no option but to attack Auckland City and aim for a convincing victory. To advance, they must defeat Auckland City and hope for Benfica to lose against Bayern Munich while overtaking them on goal difference.
Considering Benfica's substantial goal advantage after the 6-0 win over Auckland, Boca Juniors are under pressure to perform well. However, the Kiwi team has struggled in the tournament, conceding numerous chances.
Boca Juniors may exploit Auckland's vulnerabilities and take risks to secure a win. Auckland's lack of attacking threat, with only five shots in the tournament so far, could work in Boca's favor.
Predictably, Boca Juniors might capitalize on set-piece opportunities, especially penalties. Auckland City has conceded penalties in both matches, raising the chances of Boca converting from the spot. Additionally, the VAR system will monitor the defensive actions closely in the penalty area.