Boca Juniors face Bayern Munich on Matchday 2 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, with both teams needing their stars on the field. Yet one question continues to circulate among Boca fans: Why isn’t Edinson Cavani playing today?
Boca Juniors and Bayern Munich meet on Matchday 2 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in a decisive group-stage clash that could determine their fate in the tournament. Both clubs are aiming to advance to the knockout stage, and the stakes are as high as ever. With qualification on the line, both teams will rely on their top talent and clinical finishing—but Boca will have to do it without one of their biggest stars: Edinson Cavani.
Boca head into this matchup under pressure after a 2–2 draw with Benfica in their opening match. Managed by Miguel Ángel Russo—now in his third stint in charge—Boca need a positive result against the German giants to remain in contention for a top-two finish in Group C. The squad showed promise in their opener but failed to close out the win.
Rodrigo Battaglia opened the scoring against Benfica, and Boca’s second goal initially appeared to come from Miguel Merentiel. However, it was later ruled an own goal by Nicolás Otamendi. Regardless, Merentiel emerged as one of Boca’s standout performers, leading the line with energy and precision throughout the match.
On the other side, Bayern Munich made headlines with a dominant 10–0 victory over Auckland City in their opener. The lopsided scoreline, however, came against a semi-professional side and is unlikely to be repeated. Facing Boca presents a completely different challenge, especially given the Argentine club’s passionate following and tactical discipline.
Why is Edinson Cavani not available?
Cavani aggravated a previous calf injury during Boca’s Apertura quarterfinal against Independiente on May 19. Coming off the bench in the second half as a late substitute, the 38-year-old suffered a setback in his recovery. The recurring nature of the injury has extended his rehab timeline.
Russo made it clear ahead of Boca’s opener that he won’t risk Cavani prematurely. “I’d rather wait one more day than lose him for 20,” Russo said, emphasizing long-term recovery over short-term gain. Although Cavani has pushed to be included, he has yet to resume full training with the group. The hope within Boca’s camp is that he may be fit in time for the final group-stage match against Auckland City on June 24.
Boca’s expected starting XI vs. Bayern Munich
In Cavani’s absence, Merentiel will once again lead the line as Boca’s No. 9. He’ll be supported by Carlos Palacios, who will operate slightly deeper in a dual forward-link role. Russo is expected to deploy a flexible 4-4-2 shape that can shift into a 4-2-3-1 depending on game flow and possession phases.
Projected Boca Juniors lineup: Agustín Marchesín; Luis Advíncula, Lautaro Di Lollo, Ayrton Costa, Lautaro Blanco; Kevin Zenón, Tomás Belmonte, Rodrigo Battaglia, Alan Velasco; Carlos Palacios, Miguel Merentiel.
From: bolavip.com
