Otamendi Brushes Off Boca Fans' Boos: “It’s Part of Argentine Football Folklore”

Nicolás Otamendi played the villain’s role to perfection in Benfica’s 2–2 draw with Boca Juniors at the Club World Cup. The veteran center-back, a known River Plate fan, was constantly booed by the Boca supporters at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, but had the last word with a late equalizer and a pointed celebration.

“They booed me all game long, but that’s part of the folklore of Argentine football,” Otamendi told reporters post-match. “It just so happened I scored the equalizer—I celebrated it like I always do, with passion.” After the game, he posted a photo of his celebration with a caption referencing the cumbia song Para la gilada, a clear jab at his critics.

The match was intense on and off the field, marked by three red cards—Ander Herrera and Nicolás Figal for Boca, and Andrea Belotti for Benfica. Boca had taken an early 2–0 lead through Merentiel and Battaglia, but Di María’s penalty before halftime and Otamendi’s header in the 83rd minute completed the comeback.

With the draw, both teams sit on one point in Group C. Boca will next face Bayern Munich on Friday, while Benfica takes on Auckland City.