Boca Juniors' Path to Copa Libertadores Group Stage
Club Atlético Boca Juniors, one of Argentina's most prestigious football clubs, is gearing up for its journey in the 2025 Copa Libertadores. Following the recent draw held by the South American Football Confederation (Conmebol), Boca has identified its potential rivals in the preliminary rounds of the tournament. The team, managed by Fernando Gago, will face either Alianza Lima from Peru or Nacional from Paraguay in the second phase of the competition.
Boca Juniors secured its spot in the second phase after finishing fifth in the Argentine league's annual table. The draw revealed that Boca will avoid some of the toughest teams in the early stages, including Bahia and Corinthians from Brazil. The first leg of Boca's matchup will take place on February 5, while the return leg is scheduled for February 12. The winner of this tie will then face either Independiente Santa Fe from Colombia or Deportes Iquique from Chile in the third phase, with the first match occurring on February 18 at Boca's iconic La Bombonera stadium.
Potential for an Argentine Superclásico
If Boca Juniors successfully navigates through the preliminary rounds, there is a possibility of an Argentine Superclásico against its fierce rival, River Plate, in the group stage. River Plate, having qualified directly and being seeded in pot 1, could face Boca, who would enter from pot 4 if they advance. This scenario hinges on Boca's performance in the upcoming matches, as they must first overcome the challenges posed by Alianza Lima or Nacional and then potentially Independiente Santa Fe or Deportes Iquique.
Both Alianza Lima and Nacional have had mixed performances in their respective leagues, with Alianza finishing fourth in Peru's league and Nacional struggling in Paraguay. The outcome of their matchup will be crucial for Boca as they aim to reclaim glory in the Copa Libertadores, a tournament they have won six times in the past.
