Boca Juniors reshuffles the lineup for the visit to Independiente Rivadavia, making two notable changes in an attempt to end a winless run that has now stretched beyond three months. Rodrigo Battaglia will move into the midfield to pair with Leandro Paredes, while Lautaro Di Lollo steps in at center-back in place of Nicolás Figal. The shift also means Di Lollo slots into the defense ahead of Malcom Braida, who is out of the squad after the birth of his child Félix.
The other alteration sees Carlos Palacios come into the starting XI, replacing Alan Velasco, who had started in every match under the current coaching staff. The rest of the team remains as expected, with Edinson Cavani and Miguel Merentiel forming a 4-4-2 partnership up front.
Confirmed starting XI
– Agustín Marchesin
– Juan Barinaga
– Lautaro Di Lollo
– Marco Pellegrino
– Lautaro Blanco
– Brian Aguirre
– Rodrigo Battaglia
– Leandro Paredes
– Carlos Palacios
– Miguel Merentiel
– Edinson Cavani
What this change signals
– Battaglia’s shift to midfield alongside Paredes suggests Boca is looking for more control and distribution in the middle of the park, aiming to unlock opportunities for Cavani and Merentiel up front.
– Di Lollo’s introduction at center-back pairs him with Pellegrino, giving Boca a younger, perhaps more mobile central axis while Figal misses out.
– Palacios’ inclusion adds attacking versatility and width, moving Velasco out of the starting lineup for this match.
– The formation retains the 4-4-2 shape, underscoring a preference for a familiar shape with a revised personnel to spark a breakthrough.
Summary
Boca opts for a purposeful reshuffle ahead of a crucial clash with Independiente Rivadavia, bringing in Battaglia and Palacios while promoting Di Lollo to shore up defense and push for a much-needed win.
Positive note
The changes reflect a proactive approach by the coaching staff to bounce back quickly and find a balance between solidity at the back and creativity in midfield, with Cavani and Merentiel continuing to lead the attack. If the new setup starts clicking, it could provide the spark needed to end the wait for a victory.