Bayern Munich played its final group game in the new Club World Cup format, only to fall short of topping the group after losing 0-1 to SL Benfica. Despite a far from satisfactory first-half performance,

It was a scorcher Tuesday afternoon in uptown Charlotte - and a European power delivered a sharp performance. Portuguese powerhouse SL Benfica defeated German champions Bayern Munich, 1-0, in the second of four FIFA Club World Cup showcase matches this month at Bank of America Stadium.

Bayern lost its first match loss of the tournament as it struggled to find a rhythm ahead of the knockout stages later this week.