Alianza Lima made history in the Copa Libertadores by becoming the first Peruvian team to eliminate Boca Juniors in a knockout stage of the continental tournament. On a memorable night at La Bombonera, the ‘blanquiazules’ triumphed in a penalty shootout 5-4, after drawing 2-2 on aggregate, advancing to the Phase 3 of the competition.

A Draw That Felt Like Victory

The match was played with extreme intensity. Boca Juniors managed to level the tie with a 2-1 win in regular time, thanks to an own goal by Miguel Trauco and a goal from Kevin Zenón. However, Alianza Lima, with a header from Hernán Barcos, kept the hopes of their fans alive and sent the game to penalties. In that shootout, goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra became the hero by saving the decisive penalty from Velasco, allowing Alianza Lima to move on to the next phase.

A Historic Blow to South American Football

This victory not only marks a milestone for Alianza Lima, but it also represents a historic blow to South American football. Until now, no Peruvian team had ever managed to eliminate Boca Juniors in a Copa Libertadores series, highlighting the magnitude of the achievement by the team coached by Néstor Gorosito.

The Celebration of the ‘Blanquiazules’

Celebrations in the La Bombonera locker room were euphoric, with Alianza Lima players celebrating their historic qualification with chants and applause. Hernán Barcos, one of the stars of the match, highlighted the team's effort and the importance of this victory for Peruvian football. "No one believed in us, but we showed that Alianza Lima is also a giant," said the forward.

Now, the ‘blanquiazules’ are preparing to face Deportes Iquique from Chile in the Phase 3 of the Copa Libertadores 2025, with hopes of continuing to make history and advancing to the group stage of the tournament. The first battle is won, but Alianza Lima wants to keep breaking barriers and leaving a mark on the continent.