Sources: 
S.L. Benfica delivered a dominant 6-0 victory over Auckland City in the FIFA Club World Cup, overcoming a significant two-hour thunderstorm delay that paused the second half.
The Portuguese side showcased their offensive prowess with goals from
Ángel Di María, who scored twice from the penalty spot deep into added time at both halves,
Vangelis Pavlidis (53'),
Renato Sanches (63'), and
Luis Barreiro who netted twice in quick succession (76', 78').
Despite Auckland City qualifying as the best team from Oceania, they struggled to contain Benfica's attack, managing only a single shot compared to Benfica's 18 in the first half alone. The match's delay due to thunderstorms did not deter Benfica's momentum.
The result highlighted the gulf in class between the European giants and the Oceania representatives, who had previously faced criticism after conceding double-digit goals in their opening game. Auckland City attempted counterattacks but were ultimately overwhelmed by Benfica's relentless pressure.
"Ángel Di María, who teamed with to win the 2022 World Cup, scored his first goal from the penalty spot deep into added time at the end of the first half. His second goal, and the team's sixth, was again from the penalty spot and deep in added time at the end of the match," underscored Benfica's clinical finishing.
This emphatic win positions Benfica strongly in Group C, demonstrating their readiness to contend for the Club World Cup title despite adverse weather interruptions.
Sources: Benfica overwhelmed Auckland City 6-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup despite a two-hour thunderstorm delay. Goals came from Á. Di María (two penalties), V. Pavlidis, Renato Sanches, and L. Barreiro (two). Auckland City, Oceania's best, struggled against the Portuguese powerhouse, outshot 18-1 in Group C action.
