Boca Juniors struck first in the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals with a 1-0 victory over São Paulo on Tuesday at La Bombonera. Miguel Merentiel scored the only goal of the match, giving the Argentine side the advantage heading into the decisive second leg at the Morumbí.
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- (VIDEO) Boca Juniors Strike First Against São Paulo and Take the Advantage in the Copa Sudamericana Quarterfinals
(VIDEO) Boca Juniors Strike First Against São Paulo and Take the Advantage in the Copa Sudamericana Quarterfinals
A goal from Miguel Merentiel gave Boca Juniors a 1-0 victory over São Paulo at La Bombonera and a narrow advantage ahead of the second leg of their Copa Sudamericana quarterfinal matchup.
The Brazilian side started the match on the front foot and looked to create danger through Luciano and Jonathan Calleri as its main attacking threats, while Artur played an important role in creating opportunities.
The first clear chance arrived in the 16th minute, when Luciano connected with a powerful header that forced Álvaro Montero to send the ball over the crossbar. Before halftime, Leandro Paredes, Calleri and Lautaro Blanco also had opportunities, but the score remained level.
Merentiel Breaks the Deadlock at La Bombonera
Boca came out with greater determination after halftime and found the breakthrough in the 52nd minute. A quick five-pass combination ended with Lautaro Blanco cutting the ball back for Merentiel.
The Uruguayan’s first attempt was stopped by Rafael, but the forward reacted quickly to the rebound and sent the ball into the net to make it 1-0.
From that point on, Rodolfo Arruabarrena’s side managed possession more effectively and forced São Paulo to chase the equalizer. Domingos Duarte came close with a low cross-shot, but Montero once again made the save.
São Paulo Lose Calleri for the Second Leg
The match produced a controversial moment in the 75th minute when referee Piero Maza initially sent off Domingos Duarte for a hard challenge on Paredes. However, after reviewing the play with VAR, he reversed his decision and rescinded the red card.
Dorival Júnior made five substitutions in search of an equalizer, but São Paulo could not break down Boca’s defense. In addition, Jonathan Calleri received a yellow card for dissent and will be suspended for the second leg.
The series will be decided next Tuesday at the Morumbí. Boca Juniors will arrive with a narrow advantage, while São Paulo will need to come from behind at home.
The winner will face either Independiente Santa Fe or Vasco da Gama in the semifinals after the two sides played to a 0-0 draw in Bogotá.
