Boca Juniors thrives on the thrill of finals, treating every match with the passion and intensity typical of decisive games. As they prepare to face Barracas Central, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the blue and gold team, which currently sits in 10th place in Group A and outside the playoff positions of the Clausura Tournament. Boca also holds fifth place in the annual table and desperately needs a good performance to secure a spot in the 2026 Copa Libertadores. Winning this match could elevate them to third place domestically and close the gap with Rosario Central in the overall standings, bringing them closer to confirming their place in the coveted tournament.
Coach Claudio Úbeda recognizes the significance of the upcoming match, prompting him to implement a strict 48-hour concentration period for the team. This decision had the players staying overnight at the Intercontinental Hotel ahead of the crucial clash. Úbeda is keen to ensure his squad is focused as they look to reclaim a spot in continental competition after a two-year absence. He is also mindful of the looming Superclásico against River Plate on November 9.
The immediate objectives for Boca are clear: qualifying for next year’s Libertadores and defeating their arch-rival, River. The squad’s recent history has been difficult, having faced elimination from both the Copa and Copa Argentina. Their struggles under previous coaches Fernando Gago and Miguel Angel Russo have placed extra pressure on Úbeda, who has faced criticism for Boca’s performance. The team has managed to win only four of their last twenty matches, including a recent setback against Belgrano.
Despite these challenges, Úbeda believes in his team’s potential for improvement. He pointed out that Boca created several scoring opportunities in their last outing, indicating that their struggles have more to do with execution than with effort. “The team deserved a different outcome,” he stated, emphasizing the necessity to convert chances into goals.
Ahead of the match with Barracas Central, Úbeda is set to make two changes due to a combination of injury and tactical adjustments. With Rodrigo Battaglia sidelined by a muscle tear, Milton Delgado will step in, following a commendable performance during the U-20 World Cup. His inclusion aims to enhance midfield dynamism. Meanwhile, Williams Alarcón will take over for Brian Aguirre, utilizing a double-striker system with Miguel Merentiel and Milton Giménez continuing to lead the attack. Notably, Edinson Cavani remains unavailable due to an ongoing injury.
The upcoming match against Barracas Central is pivotal, with four critical fixtures ahead against Estudiantes away, River at home, and Tigre in Victoria. Each match will be treated as a final, adding extra pressure and excitement for the fans and players alike. Boca Juniors continues to pursue their aspirations with determination and hope as they navigate through this crucial phase of the season.