Dylan Connolly’s Surprise Appearance Amidst Auckland City Stunner
Dylan Connolly’s shock result with Auckland City came as the Irish winger featured in their unexpected 1-1 draw against Boca Juniors in the Club World Cup. Representing Ireland as the tournament’s sole Irish player, Connolly was introduced in the second half of the clash held at Geodis Park in Nashville. The game was dramatically interrupted by a lengthy weather delay, with lightning strikes forcing officials to halt play for nearly an hour to ensure safety for players and staff.
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Auckland Strikes Back Before the Storm
Auckland managed to equalize just before the break in play, thanks to Christian Grey’s goal—their only goal of the tournament. Earlier in the match, the New Zealand side had conceded through an unfortunate own goal in the 26th minute, giving Boca Juniors the lead. Despite Auckland’s spirited comeback, both clubs were eliminated from the competition, with Auckland finishing at the bottom of Group C on just one point. Boca also failed to qualify, marking an early exit for the South American giants.
Group C Drama and Benfica’s Rise
Elsewhere in the same group, Andreas Schjelderup was the hero for Benfica, scoring in the 13th minute to hand the Portuguese side a stunning 1-0 win over Bayern Munich. His precise finish into the bottom corner was enough to see Benfica top the group and advance to the knockout stages, with Bayern joining them as group runners-up.
Chelsea Marches On with Delap’s Breakthrough
In Group D, Chelsea cruised to the last 16 with a 3-0 win over Esperance Tunis in Philadelphia. Tosin Adarabioyo opened the scoring just before halftime, and Liam Delap, scoring his first goal for Chelsea, added to the lead shortly after. Tyrique George sealed the result in added time, following a VAR-overturned penalty decision. Chelsea’s victory sets up a next-round encounter with Benfica in Charlotte.
Late Goals Light Up Flamengo vs LAFC
Flamengo drew 1-1 with LAFC in Orlando, as Wallace Yan scored an 86th-minute equalizer just after Denis Bouanga gave the MLS side their only goal of the tournament. Flamengo now prepares to face Bayern Munich in the round of 16.
