Ex-Man Utd Star Sent Off for Off-Pitch Guard Clash in Chaotic Boca-Benfica Club World Cup

Ex-Man United Star Ander Herrera Sees Red in Chaotic Club World Cup Clash
(Images: Herrera confronting officials; Belotti’s high challenge; Figal’s dismissal)

Boca Juniors and Benfica delivered a fiery 2-2 draw in Monday’s Club World Cup showdown, but the match will be remembered for its chaos—including former Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera’s bizarre red card while off the pitch.

Herrera’s Sideline Meltdown
The 35-year-old Spaniard, now with Boca, was substituted early due to injury but sparked controversy just before halftime. During a VAR review, Herrera attempted to shove past security to confront referee César Ramos, resulting in a direct red card. The incident, captured on video, showed Herrera’s frustration boiling over as officials restrained him.

(Image: Herrera grappling with a security guard near the VAR monitor)

This marked another low in Herrera’s injury-plagued stint at Boca. Since joining in January, he’s battled multiple fitness issues, including a tearful exit in March. His latest setback—a 20th-minute substitution—likely fueled his outburst.

Benfica’s Fightback and More Red Cards
Benfica rallied from 2-0 down after Boca’s early goals from Miguel Merentiel and Rodrigo Battaglia. Ex-Premier League stars Ángel Di María and Nicolás Otamendi leveled the score, but the game descended into chaos with two more dismissals:

• Andrea Belotti: Initially booked for a high boot to an opponent’s head, the Benfica striker saw yellow upgraded to red after VAR intervention.
• Jorge Figal: The Boca defender earned a straight red for a reckless tackle near Benfica’s bench, sparking a heated confrontation.

(Image: Belotti protesting his red card; Figal’s late challenge)

Tournament Context
The match, held at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, was part of a revamped Club World Cup featuring Bayern Munich and Auckland City in Group C. Bayern had earlier thrashed Auckland 10-0, setting up a high-stakes clash with Benfica.

(Image: Di María celebrating his goal for Benfica)

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Herrera’s Struggles Highlighted
Once a key player for Manchester United and PSG, Herrera’s career has stalled amid persistent injuries. His latest dismissal adds to a tumultuous year, raising questions about his future in Argentina.

(Image: Herrera leaving the pitch injured earlier this season)

Final Score: Boca Juniors 2-2 Benfica (Merentiel 4’, Battaglia 27’; Di Maria 56’, Otamendi 67’).

By Eric Blum | Updated: 06:52 BST, 17 June 2025

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Key Points:

• Three red cards marred a thrilling 2-2 draw.
• Herrera’s sideline antics stole headlines.
• Benfica’s comeback keeps knockout hopes alive.
• Bayern Munich dominates Group C after 10-0 rout.

(Image: Boca and Benfica players clashing during the match)

The tournament continues with heightened tension as teams vie for a historic title in the expanded Club World Cup format.