Boca ended the weekend with painful news: Leandro Paredes suffered a muscle tear and will miss the start of the semifinal tie against Vasco da Gama in the Sudamericana, risking his absence in the decisive match in Brazil. Can the team cope? Coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena must act fast to discover the squad’s best version without its captain.
For my money, Paredes’ blend of world‑cup pedigree and calm presence has been the Xeneize’s secret weapon, lifting the side both on and off the pitch. His absence strips the Bombonera of a leader whose poise turns dull chances into clear threats, a void the team will feel when Vasco arrives on Tuesday.
With the setback, the coach is scouting midfield tweaks. Aside from Tomás Belmonte, also sidelined, options point to inserting Williams Alarcón or granting Carlos Palacios a freer attacking role to link up with the front line, while maintaining the defensive shape supplied by Santiago Ascacíbar and Milton Delgado.