Boca Juniors steps onto the continental stage for the first time in Group F, entering the Copa Libertadores as guests while the team continues under an interim coaching plan on the bench. The club approaches the tournament with a mix of ambition and caution, aiming to translate domestic momentum into success on the wider South American stage.
The 2023 Copa Libertadores marks Boca’s return to the big stage with hopes of lifting a seventh crown. Yet this campaign begins under a cloud of uncertainty after the leadership shake-ups that followed Hugo NaN’s departure, and amid the reluctance of Ibarra and Gerardo Martino to step into the role. As a result, the Ribera club starts its international journey guided by a temporary coach, navigating a path full of high expectations and scrutiny from fans and media alike.
The Boca group in the Copa Libertadores 2023: teams, calendar and positions
In Group F, Boca will make its tournament debut on the road against Monagas, the Venezuelan runners-up who earned their place by finishing second in their domestic league. The match is scheduled for Thursday, April 6, at 9 p.m. local time, taking place at the Monumental stadium in Maturín. The fixture sets the tone for a demanding group phase, where every match offers a test of character and tactical clarity for the visitor from Argentina.
THE CHALLENGE FOR BOCA AGAINST MONAGAS
For what could be a pivotal moment in his tenure, the interim coach is tasked with presenting a clear plan for the entire group stage. While the official roster is still being finalized, the staff is monitoring two key players who faced fitness issues in the recent league win over Barracas Central, a 3-0 result that helped the team gain confidence heading into Libertadores. Luca Langoni was forced off at halftime due to a knee problem, and Pol Fernandez carried muscle discomfort that raised questions about availability for the upcoming trip. The medical team remains cautiously optimistic about their chances to travel, with daily updates guiding decisions as the fixture approaches.
THE TRAINING CAMP AHEAD OF THE MONAGAS MATCH
The interim coach expressed satisfaction with the collective performance shown in the weekend victory over Guapo, noting that the squad had built a solid base in organization and tempo. If Langoni and Pol Fernandes recover in time, the likely starting XI could resemble the lineup used in recent outings, with a focus on balance, pressing efficiency, and attacking intent. The day-to-day evaluation of players continues as the trip to Maturín looms, with tactical flexibility remaining a key feature of Boca’s approach this season.
The probable lineup could include Sergio Romero in goal, Nicolas Figal and Bruno Valdez in central defense, Facundo Roncaglia and Frank Fabra on the flanks, Pol Fernandez and Alan Varela in midfield, with Juan Ramirez providing playmaking support. Up front, Luca Langoni, Dario Benedetto, and Sebastian Villa would offer pace, finishing ability, and creativity, forming a front line designed to trouble Monagas from the outset.