Benfica Coach Bruno Lage Prepares for Boca Juniors in FIFA Club World Cup

MIAMI GARDENS, Florida, United States (June 15, 2025) — Benfica manager Bruno Lage is optimistic about the team’s upcoming match against Boca Juniors, scheduled for June 16. This will be Benfica’s first game in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

During a press conference, Lage emphasized the importance of the match, stating, “It is a very important game and we need to face it. We play for points, and tomorrow is critical.” He acknowledged the significance of collecting points in the group stage of the tournament.

As the team prepares to take on Boca Juniors at the Hard Rock Stadium, Lage reflected on the analysis the coaching staff has done on their opponents. “We understand how important it is to get points. We know our opponent. We had the opportunity to analyze Boca and other teams,” he said.

Lage also addressed the recent transfer of Álvaro Carreras to Real Madrid. When asked how this impacts the team’s mindset, he stated, “It is not the end of an era or the beginning of an era. We have to see this as a continuation.” He added that the players view each other as family, which fosters a strong team spirit.

The Benfica coach further discussed the possibility of Joao Felix returning to the club after his loan spell. “We have to create the right opportunities, and he needs to show us that he has the will to come to Benfica,” Lage explained. He acknowledged the challenges linked to Felix’s financial terms and his past transfer from the club.

Lage concluded, stating, “We have the will for it, but it needs to be good for both sides.” As the tournament unfolds, Benfica’s performance against Boca Juniors could be crucial for advancing in the tournament.