The blue and gold passion was alive and kicking in Miami. Just hours before the big match against Bayern Munich, hundreds of Boca Juniors fans gathered on the city’s beaches for the traditional second banderazo, that iconic ritual where supporters show their unconditional love for the team. Flags, drums, chants, and tears turned the shore into a true open-air Bombonera.

“Boca is everything,” fans kept repeating, many on the verge of tears. There were chants like “my blood is blue, my heart is yellow” and “not even the National Team makes me feel like this,” showing how much the club means to its people. The banderazo also became a gathering spot for families, Argentine expats, and tourists who found in football a way to feel at home, even far from Buenos Aires.

A Clear Message Before the Big Challenge

The sea witnessed the unconditional love that ties Boca with its fans. More than just a warm-up, the banderazo was an act of faith, a moment of unity between the team and its people. “You can’t explain it, you just feel it,” said one attendee while waving a giant flag that read “Boca is Argentina.” The message was clear: the Xeneize community is ready to cheer until the very end.

All eyes are now on the next challenge: the match against Bayern Munich this Friday, June 20th at 9:00 PM ET, the second game of Group C in the 2025 Club World Cup. The game will be at the Hard Rock Stadium, the same place where Boca drew 2-2 with Benfica. For Miguel Ángel Russo’s team, picking up points is urgent if they want to stay alive in the tournament.

The situation isn’t easy. Ánder Herrera and Nicolás Figal are suspended, and Merentiel is doubtful due to injury. Russo plans to make changes, like bringing in Lautaro Di Lollo and Tomás Belmonte, and might try some offensive switches. They’ll face a crushing Bayern side coming off a 10-0 win over Auckland City, led by an inspired Jamal Musiala and stars like Harry Kane and Manuel Neuer.

Despite the German powerhouse, voices like Manuel Neuer and the legendary Élber acknowledge the value of facing a giant like Boca Juniors. This promises to be an intense clash—a battle of styles, history, and ambition. And if anything was clear down on the Miami beaches, it’s that Boca doesn’t play alone: the fans have done their part, now it’s up to the team to show it on the pitch.