Boca Juniors faces Gimnasia y Esgrima de La Plata in Córdoba as they chase a spot in the final of Argentina’s most federal competition
On Wednesday, November 22, at 9:10 PM local time, the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Córdoba hosts a crucial semifinal as Boca Juniors takes on Estudiantes de La Plata in the 2023 Argentine Cup. The match represents a gateway to the final and a potential route to the next Copa Libertadores, highlighting Boca’s dual ambitions for domestic glory and continental qualification. After narrowly missing the title in the previous campaign, Boca aims to seal a spot in the final and also keep pressure on the league table over the coming weeks.
Coach Mariano Herrón faces a mix of cautious optimism and tough selection decisions ahead of this important clash. A positive development comes with the return of Luis Advíncula, who was suspended after a yellow card in Peru’s defeat to Bolivia and has rejoined the squad in Buenos Aires. On the medical side, Marcos Rojo is on the mend from a muscle issue, while Equi Fernández is being monitored after a Grade 1 injury to the soleus in his left leg and is unlikely to be part of the final squad list. Meanwhile, several players are unavailable due to injuries or form considerations, including Frank Fabra who is sidelined with a strain to the internal lateral ligament of the right knee, and Edinson Cavani who is dealing with a left rectus femoris muscle problem.
The probable Boca starting XI would feature Sergio Romero in goal, with Advíncula, Nicolás Figal, Marcos Rojo, and Marcelo Saracchi in the defense. The midfield could see Cristian Medina, Pol Fernández, Equi Fernández, and Valentín Barco control the tempo, while up front Miguel Merentiel partners with either Luca Langoni or Darío Benedetto in a bid to convert chances into goals.
This encounter is more than a single match; it could shape Boca’s season by delivering a domestic trophy and a prestigious continental berth. The team will need to balance immediate semi final pressure with strategic preparation for the coming matches that will determine Argentina’s representation in the Copa Libertadores. The atmosphere in Córdoba is expected to be electric as both clubs push to secure their place in the final and keep their broader ambitions within reach. (Goal)