Boca Juniors stretched their streak to five matches without a win or a loss in the latest international showdown, needing a victory in Brazil or another penalty shootout if the game ends in a draw once more.
Five knockout rounds, five consecutive draws. In this Copa Libertadores edition, Boca has shown itself to be stubborn and consistent but unable to close out matches—whether by a late winner or a decisive goal—forcing them to depend on a rematch as visitors again, this time in the semi-finals, as they chase a place in the final and—more importantly—the chance to lift the continental trophy for a seventh time.
Despite controlling much of the play and crafting the better chances, the host team could not convert their opportunities. A goal was disallowed due to a Fabra foul just before Merentiel struck, and then the game finished goalless for the third time in this series and the fifth time overall in the current Libertadores campaign. The draw leaves Boca in a position where they must overturn the tie away from home if they want to advance, with the mood in the camp mixed yet resolute.
WHAT BOCA NEEDS TO REACH THE FINAL
The situation mirrors the quarter-final leg against Racing, where away goals were not counted as double and the decider would again fall to a shootout if necessary. Sergio Romero is set to be entrusted with the responsibility of delivering another heroic performance from the spot, as Boca looks to keep their hopes alive by securing a win or at least forcing penalties once more. A victory for Palmeiras would seal their progress and knock Boca out of the competition, underscoring the high-stakes nature of the upcoming clash.
In recent matches, Boca has shown a blend of discipline in defense and intent in attack, but the final touch has eluded them at critical moments. The tactical battle promises to be intense in the upcoming leg, with Palmeiras likely to press high and provoke turnovers, while Boca will seek to exploit counter-attacking opportunities and set pieces. The outcome could hinge on clinical finishing, effective ball circulation in the final third, and the ability to convert chances when they arise—elements Boca has to refine quickly to tilt the balance in their favor. The next fixture is expected to test the mental strength and depth of both squads, as they navigate fatigue, pressure, and the looming prospect of a coveted continental final. (Goal)
Overview: Boca’s path remains challenging but not insurmountable, with the semi-final stage offering a platform to showcase resilience and strategic maturity. The club’s supporters will be watching closely as the aggregate tension rises and the season’s ambitions hang in the balance.