The Bombonera hosts the 13th round of the 2023 Professional League Cup as Boca Juniors seeks three crucial points to close the campaign strong and keep hopeful on the path to continental football. A win here would keep their Libertadores dream alive and set the tone for a concluding month that could define their international fate for 2024.
In this decisive match, Boca relies on the support of the home crowd to push through what promises to be a highly intense encounter with Newells Old Boys. The result will influence their Chilean-style surge toward the top of the standings and determine whether the club can advance directly to the next Libertadores Cup or must navigate other routes in the national calendar to secure a continental spot.
After the draw with San Lorenzo at the Nuevo Gasómetro, Boca ended any chance of progression in the national cup at that stage. With the return to league action scheduled for Sunday, November 12 at 4:45 p.m., the team must collect three points against La Lepra to keep their continental hopes alive. A failure to win would push them toward the Argentine Cup as the remaining avenue to reach the top continental competition in 2024.
Boca’s injury list and squad decisions
Boca will be without several familiar names who are sidelined through injury. Frank Fabra continues his recovery from an injury to the internal lateral ligament of his right knee. Equi Fernandez has a grade I strain to the left soleus, while Marcos Rojo will not be summoned for the match despite training alongside the squad; he has already been spared for the semi final of the Argentine Cup against Estudiantes.
From the reserve squad, Aaron Anselmino, Jabez Saralegui, and Vicente Taborda were recalled after being rested for the clásico in Bajo Flores. Also in the mix is Mauricio Benitez, a young midfielder who played a pivotal role in winning the U-20 Copa Libertadores, adding fresh energy to the midfield choices for the clash with Newell’s.
On the flip side, Pol Fernandez and Valentin Barco are expected to be available for selection. Fernandez, who had a mild scare after leaving training with a fever, has recovered, and Barco did not experience any worsening symptoms, allowing him to train fully ahead of the important encounter. The coaching staff will weigh a balanced approach, aiming to preserve squad depth while prioritizing performance for the season’s last home game.
In terms of lineup dynamics, the club intends to optimize the balance between defensive solidity and attacking intent. The head coach will assess how to integrate returning players and youngsters who have shown readiness to contribute in high-stakes matchups. The tactical plan will likely revolve around maintaining control in the midfield, pressing high when possible, and leveraging the pace on the flanks to trouble Newell’s on the counterattack. The atmosphere inside the stadium is expected to be electric, with fans rallying behind the team in a crucial moment of the campaign.
These preparations come as Boca looks to translate regular-season performances into a result that preserves options for the final stretch. The team understands the gravity of securing a continental berth and the impact it would have on the club’s prestige, sponsorship, and fan engagement going into the offseason. Supporters hope the squad can deliver a robust performance that reflects the club’s history and ambition, delivering a positive note to close the domestic league phase.
As the formation comes into focus, the possible starting XI will reflect a mix of experienced leaders and young talents eager to prove themselves on a big stage. The coaching staff’s choices will aim to maintain a strong spine at the back, creative spark in the middle, and goal threat up front. The fans will be hoping for a performance that blends organization, determination, and the fearless spirit that has defined Boca in recent seasons.
Source: Goal