Sofia Quijada
Boca Juniors squeezed through to the quarter-finals of the Argentine Apertura tournament on Saturday, defeating Lanús 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. Yet despite the progression, La Bombonera echoed with boos, as fans made their displeasure known over another disjointed and uninspired display.
Marchesín the Hero in Penalty Drama
Veteran goalkeeper Agustín Marchesín was the hero for Boca, saving Lanús’ first penalty from Alexis Canelo and producing key saves throughout the match to keep the score level. Dylan Aquino then skied his effort for Lanús, putting Boca firmly in control of the shootout.
Boca converted their first three penalties with composure before substitute Milton Giménez stepped up to bury the decisive spot-kick, securing a place in the last eight where they will meet the winner of Independiente vs Independiente Rivadavia.
Boos and Backlash at La Bombonera
While the scoreboard showed success, the stands told a different story. Chants of frustration rained down from Boca supporters throughout the evening, targeting both the players and club management. The team’s recent performances have fallen short of expectations, and the fans weren’t shy about expressing it.
“We definitely need to improve… but we achieved what we wanted,” said interim coach Mariano Herrón, who took over after Fernando Gago’s dismissal last month.
“The fans’ anger is understandable. We know we have to be better.”
Match Summary: Low Tempo, Few Highlights
The match was largely devoid of clear-cut chances. Lanús threatened most notably through Ramiro Carrera in the first half, whose fierce strike was denied by Marchesín. The second half saw similar struggles, with Marcelino Moreno and others thwarted by Boca’s keeper.
“The jeers from their fans tell you all you need to know,” said Lanús captain Carlos Izquierdoz. “We were confident, we attacked, and that reaction from the crowd showed we were doing something right.”
Elsewhere in the Apertura Knockouts
- San Lorenzo clinched a dramatic 2-1 win over Tigre.
- Rosario Central defeated Estudiantes 2-0 at home.
- Platense stunned Racing Club with a late 1-0 upset victory.
- River Plate, one of the tournament favorites, face Barracas Central on Monday in their Round of 16 fixture.
Final Word: Boca Juniors may have survived — but the warning signs are loud and clear. As the pressure mounts, fans demand not just results, but performances worthy of the badge. Will the team rise to the occasion in the quarter-finals? Only time — and perhaps more penalties — will tell.