Xeneize opened Zone B of the League Cup with a victory over Martín Palermo’s Platense before returning focus to their Copa Libertadores quarterfinal clash against Racing. The match at La Bombonera served as a reminder that Boca Juniors can balance domestic competition with continental ambitions, even when a major continental tie looms on the horizon.
The squad used by manager Almirón blended new arrivals, trusted rotation, and regular starters, delivering a 3-1 result that did not surprise observers, yet still demonstrated the home team’s intent. In the first half, Boca produced a crisp, organized display that featured 13 touches in a sequence capped by a precise finish from Changuito Zeballos. The goal came from a fluid buildup involving Medina and Cavani, underlining the creative potential of Boca’s attack when options are deployed in harmony.
After the interval, Changuito Zeballos returned to influence play, delivering a perfect cross for Cavani to extend the lead with a well‑timed header. Shortly after, Nicolás Morgantini entered the fray for Vicente López, signaling Boca’s willingness to refresh their forward line while maintaining pressure on Platense.
Throughout a balanced second half, Cristian Medina stood out with a long-range strike that found its mark in the corner, showcasing his confidence from distance and his ability to pick spots beyond the reach of the goalkeeper. The team’s performance at home continued to reinforce a growing sense of cohesion and improvement under Almirón, who has been steadily refining the balance between attack and defense.
In the closing stages, there were moments of discomfort for Boca. Luca Langoni appeared to be carrying an issue that forced him to leave the field in visible distress, a reminder of the physical toll these fixtures can take on players. Medical checks were expected in the hours ahead of the next challenge, as the staff prepared to evaluate Langoni and other squad members ahead of the upcoming encounter with Racing.
GOALS, SUMMARY AND VIDEOS
- Medina’s powerful finish sealed the win, a goal that highlighted Boca’s late-game edge.
- Javi García returned to the spotlight, delivering key moments that helped avert a late setback.
- When Cavani and Suso share the field, Boca shows resilience and a willingness to fight for every ball.
- Platense pulled one back through a Morgantini strike, illustrating the visitors’ perseverance.
- Edinson Cavani celebrated his debut goal in the Boca jersey with a header that widened the lead and energized the fans.
- A joint move that began with Javi García and finished with Exequiel Zeballos underscored Boca’s collective creativity.
- Platense came close to a goal in the final minutes, keeping the tension alive until the whistle.
- Boca’s next warning arrived via a shot from Exequiel, signaling ongoing threat from the hosts’ attack.
- The first goal of the night belonged to Boca, setting the tone for the match’s tempo.
- La Bombonera provided a warm reception for Martín Palermo, the Platense coach, amid a charged atmosphere.
- The Platense starting XI stood firm as the visitors pressed Boca throughout the game.
- Mond’s substitution pattern signaled strategic adjustments as the match wore on.
STATISTICS
Notes and analysis summarized from the official match data and post-game reviews.
Citations: Performance metrics and highlights are attributed to league records and post-match briefings from authorized outlets.