31/07/2026 16:26 - Deportes
The Xeneize team displayed character in a thrilling encounter to move forward in the 2026 Copa Sudamericana.
On a night full of emotions, Boca Juniors secured a dramatic and hard-fought qualification to the Round of 16 of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana. After losing 1-0 to O'Higgins at the El Teniente stadium in Rancagua on July 30, 2026, the Argentine side forced a penalty shootout, winning 4-3 (aggregate 1-1) and keeping their international dream alive.
The most tense moment came during the penalty shootout when young Tomás Aranda stepped up for the fourth kick. The youngster decided to 'chip' the ball — a risky technique where the player gently strikes the underside of the ball to make it arc over the goalkeeper — but O'Higgins keeper Omar Carabalí read the intention and caught it easily.
Far from being discouraged, captain Leandro Paredes was one of the first to approach and support the youngster, sending a clear message: 'He will learn that there are moments and moments.' Hours later, Aranda took to his Instagram account to focus on the positive and celebrate the team's advancement, showing great maturity and commitment.
Boca's president, Juan Román Riquelme, spoke in a press conference and analyzed the tie with sharp honesty. 'It was a complicated match. Penalties are a matter of luck, and luck was on our side,' said the Xeneize idol.
Riquelme specifically criticized the goal they conceded from a throw-in: 'You cannot let them score from a throw-in. If they score from a throw-in, it means you didn't do it right.' However, he remained optimistic and highlighted the work of coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena, who is still getting to know his players and building the team.
The director also addressed the multiple injuries affecting the squad, including Adam Bareiro, Lucas Belmonte, and Exequiel Palacios. 'Some niggles are complicating things. In the remaining time, if there is a possibility to loan someone out and bring in another player, we will always be available,' Riquelme hinted, leaving the door open for a reinforcement in the striker position before the transfer window closes.
With qualification secured, Boca is already thinking about their next opponent. In the Round of 16, they will face Deportivo Recoleta from Paraguay in a two-legged tie scheduled between August 11 and 20, 2026. The fans' hope remains intact, and the team will look to fine-tune details to face the challenge with maximum intensity.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
