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

Merentiel’s Decisive Strike and Tactical Control

The match was defined by a moment of individual brilliance just before halftime. In the 44th minute, Miguel Merentiel capitalized on an assist from Leandro Paredes to secure the 1-0 victory. The play, described by observers as a pass of luxury from Paredes, allowed Merentiel to finish with a precise right-footed shot against O’Higgins goalkeeper Omar Carabalí.

Boca Juniors, managed by Rodolfo Arruabarrena, controlled 59.2% of the possession throughout the contest. Despite this dominance, the team faced significant defensive resistance from the Chilean side. The victory marked Arruabarrena’s return to continental competition in his current tenure with the Xeneize club.

O’Higgins’ Offensive Ambition and Missed Opportunities

Despite the result, O’Higgins maintained a competitive posture throughout the night. Manager Lucas Bovaglio had previously stated his intention to play de igual a igual (on equal terms) at La Bombonera, and his team generated early pressure. Opportunities for the visitors fell to Bryan Rabello, Francisco González, Luis Pavez, and Alan Robledo, but their efforts were ultimately thwarted by the debut performance of Boca goalkeeper Álvaro Montero.

The rival of stature is one of those that invite you to have a date with history and hopefully it will be with a positive result. Lucas Bovaglio, O’Higgins Manager

Bovaglio characterized the match as a significant historical challenge for the club. Following the defeat, he emphasized the importance of the support from traveling fans, noting that the team remains focused on the second leg, which will take place at the Codelco El Teniente stadium in Rancagua.

Leandro Paredes’ Return and Team Composition

The match was highly anticipated due to the return of Leandro Paredes, who re-joined the squad shortly after competing in the 2026 World Cup final. His influence was central to Boca’s offensive strategy. The game also featured the return of Sebastián Villa, who provided verticality on the left wing.

Boca’s medical staff had previously reported several absences, including Santiago Ascacíbar and Tomás Belmonte due to sprains, and Adam Bareiro due to a discopathy. Despite these constraints, manager Arruabarrena utilized substitutions in the second half—introducing Ascacíbar, Malcom Braida, and Alan Velasco—to maintain control and pressure the O’Higgins defense.

Path to the Round of 16

The series remains open as both teams prepare for the return leg. The aggregate winner of this playoff will advance to the round of 16 to face the Paraguayan club Recoleta. The return fixture is scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at 20:30 hours in Rancagua.

The upcoming match in Rancagua will determine which of the two sides secures their place in the next stage against Recoleta.