Boca Know European Clashes Key to Progress

Boca Juniors will begin their Club World Cup campaign knowing their chances of advancing to the knockout phase will largely depend on the outcome of their matches against Europe's heavyweights, coach Miguel Angel Russo said on June 15.

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MIAMI -

Boca face Benfica at the Hard Rock Stadium on June 16 (June 17, Singapore time), a day after Bayern Munich obliterated Auckland City 10-0 in another Group C game.

"Bayern's opponents (Auckland City) are semi-professionals, and I don't mean any disrespect. Bayern and Benfica are at another level," Russo, who just started his third stint as Boca coach, told a press conference.

Asked about Boca's chances of advancing into the knockout stages of the 32-team tournament, Russo kept his eyes on the ball.

"What matters is tomorrow's game, we're not looking at what comes after this match," he said.

"We know that in seven, eight days we'll play three matches, but the first one is the most important. Benfica are one of the great European clubs."

Boca can rely on getting a lot of support from the fans as Miami has been swarming with Argentinian supporters.