The match, played under blisteringly unbearable 36°C heat, showcased Benfica’s defensive resilience and clinical finishing, propelling them to the top of Group C and into the Round of 16, where they will face Chelsea on Saturday in Charlotte, while Bayern settled for second place and will take on Flamengo.
Benfica’s triumph was anchored by a 13th minute goal from 21-year-old Norwegian winger Andreas Schjelderup, who capitalized on a low cross from compatriot Fredrik Aursnes to fire a first-time shot past Manuel Neuer.
The goal came after a lively start from the Portuguese side, with Angel Di Maria forcing an early save from Neuer, setting the tone for Benfica’s aggressive approach in the first half that could have saw the Eagles score two or three goals.
Bayern, already assured of knockout stage qualification, fielded a heavily rotated lineup with seven changes from their previous 2-1 win over Boca Juniors. The changes looked to have led to a lackluster first half that saw the German giants with no shots on target.
Bayern coach Kompany would bring in the big guns with three key halftime changes, as Kane, Kimmich and Olise came into the game and the Germans would take control of the contest but they had difficulty breaking down Benfica's defensive compactness and when they did keeper Trubin's heroics would take hold.
Benfica’s 1-0 win was a testament to their tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and ability to seize key moments. Trubin’s goalkeeping and Schjelderup’s goal were decisive, while Bayern’s rotated squad paid the price for a sluggish start.
This historic result not only boosted Benfica’s confidence but also sent a message to their knockout opponents, Chelsea, that they are a force to be reckoned with as the tournament begins the knockout phase.
