Bayern’s Empty Bench Shocks Fans During Benfica Clash at Club World Cup

In highly unusual moment at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Bayern Munich’s bench was left completely empty during their 1 - 0 defeat to Benfica on Tuesday 24 June in Charlotte, US.

Why Was the Bench Empty?

The Bavarian giants made the rare decision to keep their substitutes inside the dressing room rather than on the touchline citing extreme heat conditions at the Bank of America Stadium where temperatures soared to 36C.

Instead the backup players followed the action on screen away from the direct sun exposure , a safety move agreed upon by Bayern’s medical & technical staff.

Not the First Time This Has Happened

Interestingly Borussia Dortmund'd already taken similar action earlier in the tournament. Their substitutes also watched the match against Mamelodi Sundowns from the locker room due to heat concerns. Dortmund went on to win that thrilling encounter 4 - 3.

Group Stage Outcome and What’s Next

Despite the loss Bayern secured 2nd place in Group C with 6 point behind group leaders Benfica 7 point. This sets up high stakes Round of 16 showdown between Bayern Munich & Flamengo, the Group D winners, on Sunday 29 June.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.