A Brawl, a Score, and an Upheaval - Boca's "Berserker" Turns Bayern Chaotic for 18 Mins
Repost, Retweet, WhatsApp, Email, Print, Link Share
FC Bayern is enduring a challenging 18-minute spell against Bocas' formidable "Beast"
Boca Juniors mounted a wild assault against Bayern Munich, rattling the German giants for a short, intense spell. At least 55,000 roaring fans propelled their Argentinian team towards a potentially transformative revenge. When "The Berserker" struck, Munich's nerves began to fray.
Miami's magic dissipated after 18 minutes when Harry Kane slotted a goal to Bayern's advantage. minimal applause echoed through the stadium, boasting mainly Boca's signature blue and yellow hues. Despite Munich's cool demeanor, they struggled to counter the unpredictable assaults of the passionate Argentinians. Finally, Bayern triumphed in their second group game with a 2-1 scoreline (following a 10-0 demolition of Auckland), but it was a tense victory against the feisty Boca.
Unfortunately for Boca, their inability to capitalize on opportunities resulted in squandered chances, and "Fan 12," the relentless fan support, couldn't single-handedly shift the tide. Bayern qualified for the World Cup's knockout stage, while Boca had to annihilate Auckland City in their final game, relying on Bayern's assistance during the process.
The energetic atmosphere was fueled by over 63,000 spectators, with approximately 55,000 Boca enthusiasts ensuring the stands shook with passionate cries of support. Apart from a few scattered Bayern supporters, the Argentinians dominated the stands, pushing their team forward unwaveringly. It wasn't until the 84th minute that it seemed the Boca tide had waned, when Munich's winger Michael Olise calmly placed a shot in the far corner.
Dig in or Surgel? Defend!
Before the match, hopes arose that more could be garnered from this epic clash — a draw? A win even? "Massacre!" confidently predicted several Boca fans in anticipation of their team's potential victory over Bayern. Warnings of unruly fan behaviors were posted on floodlight pole signs in the parking lot surrounding the stadium. The passionate fans of the 35-time Argentine champions created makeshift dining halls, constructed pavilions, dispensed icy beverages, and reveled in their optimistic chances of subduing Bayern.
A mere three minutes into play, the audience erupted for the first time, embracing their team with unrestrained enthusiasm. Boosted by the passionate crowd's fervent encouragement, Boca appeared eager to challenge the "meticulously polished machine," as Argentina's "La Nación" coinage described Bayern[1]. Following Bayern's disallowed goal a few minutes later, pandemonium ensued once again.
Every spark of dynamic play on the field ignited a pandemonium on the stands. Where the Argentinians lacked structure and quality, they made up for it in various ways. Players harassed opponents with relentless tenacity, frequently ceding possession only for tactical advantages, and playing surprise passes to disorient Bayern[1].
It was 0-1 at halftime, with Kevin Zeno narrowly missing a clear opportunity. Boca, competing in the Club World Cup, aimed to project an image of resurgence — their subpar performances in the domestic league notwithstanding. Their passionate display against Lisbon suggested a more aggressive approach than the lethargic state of their domestic league games[1].
Injured Bayern
The second half began much like the first, with Bayern maintaining control of play. However, within a stunning 18 minutes, the tide drastically changed. While European giants typically play a possession-based game, patiently waiting for an opening, Boca repeatedly played intimidating, unpredictable football. In the 33rd minute, striker Miguel Merentiel — famously called "The Beast" — found a rare opening against Bayern's central defense[2]. Following some coordinated teamwork, Merentiel break free from Jonathan Tah and danced around the hapless Josip Stanisic[2]. Shaking off stern challenges, Merentiel then found himself one-on-one with goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and cracked a snapshot over the keeper's outstretched arms, equalizing the score at 1-1[2].
The audience exploded, and the momentum shifted in favor of the Argentinians. The referee consulted the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), from which Bayern pleaded for a review, causing even more chaos on the field and the stands[6].
Were they to prevail? The last time Bayern and Boca faced off was 24 years ago. That clash boasted the makings of an epic duel, encapsulating the essence of a power struggle between two clubs reaching for greatness[2]. In 2000, the Boca team, victorious in the Copa Libertadores, claimed the World Cup against Real Madrid[2]. In midfield, Juan Riquelme, now Boca's club president, proficiently orchestrated the pulsating win[2].
But as times change, the limits of financial dominance in modern-day football become increasingly apparent. European teams are virtually printing money to recruit talent in South America[5]. A youthful Franco Mastantuono, a potential cornerstone of Boca's future, recently left for Real Madrid in a transfer worth a staggering €45 million[5]. Although the new Club World Cup is met with skepticism in Germany, the South American teams remain determined to establish a formidable presence against the financial might of their European counterparts[5]. Indeed, these international competitions offer a rare opportunity for them to demonstrate their prowess and bravado.
And the Fight Goes On...
Respects were paid to historical figures from the 2001 bout, including Rolando Schiavi, one of the participants from Boca's side[1]. Schiavi proudly displayed a throwback photograph on social media, reliving his confrontation with Bayern's Giovane Elber following their match with Benfica[1]. "No, Boca never backs down from a confrontation," the defender, also known as "El Flaco," the slender one, mused[1]. "Obviously, I'd love to join the fray, even with my recurring appendicitis," he joked[1].
Given their storied rivalries and rich histories, Boca and Bayern will hopefully face off again in the near future. Let the games begin!
The European Parliament, alongside the Commission and the Council, expressed their concern about the escalating violence in football, particularly during high-profile matches like the Champions League and other European leagues. They urged stricter measures to ensure the safety of players and fans in the wake of the fiery encounter between Boca Juniors and Bayern Munich.
Despite their passion and determination, Boca Juniors' football team faces a significant challenge in maintaining their dominance in Argentine football. As English clubs continue to acquire South American talent, there is a growing concern among football enthusiasts across Europe about the financial dominance of European clubs over their South American counterparts, such as Boca Juniors.
