Boca Juniors Set for Copa Sudamericana Decider in Chile with Paredes Return

Boca Juniors face a defining night in their 2026 Copa Sudamericana campaign on Thursday as they travel to Rancagua, Chile, to face O’Higgins in the second leg of their knockout tie. Holding a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg at La Bombonera, head coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena has confirmed a lineup that includes the return of captain Leandro Paredes and two tactical alterations from the side that won the home fixture.

The match carries significant weight for Boca, who are seeking to secure their place in the round of 16 of the continental competition. A defeat in Rancagua could eliminate one of South America’s biggest clubs from the tournament entirely, adding pressure to an already challenging away fixture.

Confirmed lineup changes

Arruabarrena has made two changes to the starting XI that beat O’Higgins 1-0 in Buenos Aires. The most notable is the return of Leandro Paredes, who missed the previous league match against Riestra after being granted a short break. Paredes resumes his role as midfield anchor and captain, providing experience and composure in a high-stakes away environment.

The second change sees Leandro Lozano make his international debut for Boca at right-back, replacing Dylan Gorosito. Lozano, a recent signing, will be tasked with containing O’Higgins’ attacking threats on the flank while also contributing to Boca’s build-up play.

In midfield, Santiago Ascacibar comes into the side in place of forward Leonel Flores, signaling a more conservative and defensively solid approach from Arruabarrena. The switch suggests Boca will look to control possession and protect their aggregate lead rather than chase an early away goal at all costs.

The rest of the lineup remains unchanged from the first leg. Álvaro Montero starts in goal behind a back four completed by Nicolás Figal, Ayrton Costa, and Lautaro Blanco. The midfield trio features Ascacibar, Paredes, and Milton Delgado, with Tomás Aranda operating in an advanced role. Up front, the attacking duo of Sebastián Villa and Miguel Merentiel will look to exploit spaces on the counter.

Key facts

What is at stake for Boca

For Boca Juniors, this match is more than just a routine continental tie. A early elimination from the Copa Sudamericana would represent a significant setback for a club that expects to compete for international honors. The pressure is amplified by the fact that O’Higgins, a club with less continental pedigree, will be highly motivated to produce a historic result on home soil.

The Estadio El Teniente in Rancagua is known for its intimate atmosphere and difficult playing conditions for visiting teams. Boca’s squad will need to demonstrate both tactical discipline and mental resilience to navigate what promises to be a hostile environment.

The return of Paredes is a major boost. His ability to dictate tempo from deep midfield and his leadership qualities are invaluable in knockout football. His presence should help Boca maintain composure during periods of O’Higgins pressure.

Arruabarrena’s tactical approach

By introducing Ascacibar alongside Paredes, Arruabarrena is prioritizing midfield solidity. This formation allows Boca to absorb pressure and look for quick transitions through Villa and Merentiel. The decision to drop a forward for an extra midfielder suggests Boca will not chase a second goal recklessly but will instead aim to frustrate O’Higgins and hit on the break.

Lozano’s inclusion at right-back is a notable gamble given his lack of international minutes for the club, but his pace and defensive awareness could be crucial against O’Higgins’ wide players.

What to watch for

Boca’s ability to handle set pieces and aerial duels in a compact stadium will be tested. O’Higgins will likely throw numbers forward early, looking to level the aggregate score. Boca’s midfield, with Paredes and Ascacibar, will need to provide cover for the back line and prevent O’Higgins from establishing a rhythm.

The attacking partnership of Villa and Merentiel will be key. Both players have the pace and skill to punish O’Higgins on the counter if Boca can win the ball in midfield and transition quickly.

Source: Ole, “El 11 de Boca con dos cambios para buscar la clasificación en Chile”, https://www.ole.com.ar/boca-juniors/boca-equipo-vasco-arruabarrena-paredes-once-cambios-lozano_0_YgAbnaTG6C.html