Boca Juniors Defeats O’Higgins 1-0 Behind Merentiel Goal and Montero Debut

Debutants and Returns at La Bombonera

The match at La Bombonera served as a significant stage for new arrivals and returning faces in the Boca Juniors squad. Goalkeeper Álvaro Montero made his official debut for the club, while attacker Sebastián Villa marked his return to the team after a three-year absence. Both players were included in the starting lineup by manager Rodolfo Arruabarrena, who is currently in his second cycle leading the club.

Montero, who joined the club following his time at Vélez Sarsfield, was tasked with anchoring the defense. His performance was marked by a moment of high pressure in the 21st minute when he denied a powerful left-footed strike from Martín Sarrafiore. This intervention proved vital in maintaining parity before Boca eventually broke the deadlock.

Álvaro Montero, Goalkeeper, remarked that everything happened very quickly, but he is enjoying every moment that presents itself and sharing that with the people as well.

Merentiel’s Goal and the Tactical Impact of Leandro Paredes

The game’s only goal arrived in the 43rd minute, courtesy of Miguel Merentiel. The Uruguayan striker capitalized on an exquisite assist from Leandro Paredes, finding himself in a one-on-one situation with O’Higgins goalkeeper Omar Carabalí before finishing with a composed strike. Paredes, who returned to the squad just days after competing in the 2026 World Cup final, acted as the primary playmaker in the midfield.

Boca Juniors Defeats O’Higgins 1-0 in Copa Sudamericana Playoff First Leg

While Boca dominated stretches of the second half, the team struggled to extend its lead. Efforts from Paredes, including a dangerous free kick, and a header from Santiago Ascacíbar failed to find the net. Despite the narrow margin, the victory provides a necessary cushion for the Xeneize ahead of the return leg in Chile.

Path to the Round of 16

The result leaves Boca Juniors with a slim advantage as they prepare for the second leg scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at 7:30 p.m. The winner of this series will progress to the round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana, where they are set to face the Paraguayan side Recoleta. For Montero, the focus remains on building consistency following a successful first outing.

Álvaro Montero, Goalkeeper, stated that winning is always good for improving, growing, and gaining confidence, and he hopes that they continue winning often.

The match also served as a focal point for the return of Sebastián Villa. According to reporting from Caracol Radio, club leadership, including Juan Román Riquelme, has publicly backed the player’s return, noting that he had fulfilled his legal obligations. Villa played 89 minutes before being substituted for Kevin Zenón, receiving acknowledgment from the home crowd as he exited the pitch.