A veteran squad is sidelined from attending the semi-final clash in the Argentine Cup due to a physical setback, altering Boca Juniors’ plans for the decisive stage of the competition.
After finishing runner-up in the Copa Libertadores and holding a mid to lower spot in the Primera División standings, the club remains laser-focused on the Argentine Cup as the route to securing a spot in the continent’s premier tournament for the 2024 season. The clear objective is simple: win the cup and clinch a place in the next season’s group stage of the continental competition.
The journey toward the crown places Boca in the semi-finals, with a first test against Estudiantes. A potential final, contingent on those results, could see the team face either San Lorenzo or Defensa y Justicia, depending on how the two ties unfold.
WHY EDINSON CAVANI MIGHT MISS THE GAME AGAINST ESTUDIANTES
In the buildup to the match, attention centered on the Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani. He had been in consideration for international duties that could have kept him away. Coach Marcelo Bielsa had named Cavani to a squad for a double-header in the South American qualifiers, with Uruguay facing Argentina and Bolivia on November 16 and 21 respectively.
With the Estudiantes fixture set for Wednesday, November 22, Cavani would be unavailable at kickoff if those call-ups had stood. However, a muscle issue in Cavani’s left rectus femoris was identified in the days ahead of the trip, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming semi-final.
The development comes amid ongoing discussions about squad depth and how the team will adapt if Cavani cannot participate. The coaching staff laid out contingency plans, weighing alternative attacking options and tactical adjustments to safeguard offensive threat in Cavani’s absence. The club stressed that any decision would balance risk, timing, and the best interests of both the player and the group as a whole. The situation remains fluid as the medical team monitors Cavani and the training group in advance of the crucial semi-final.
The club continues to map a path forward, exploring how other forwards and midfielders can contribute to the attack if Cavani is unavailable. Training sessions have focused on maintaining offensive rhythm, building combinations, and preserving energy for the decisive moments of the match. The semi-final presents a vital opportunity to advance toward continental competition while navigating the uncertainties surrounding a key contributor.
In parallel, staff members are evaluating tactical variants that could maximize output without overburdening any single player. The overarching aim is to retain the team’s attacking threat and ensure that the squad remains cohesive even in Cavani’s potential absence. The decision will ultimately reflect a balance between risk and reward, aligning with the club’s broader strategy for the cup run and the upcoming season.