After Russo's passing, Boca host Belgrano seeking another win | OneFootball

Under the command of Claudio Úbeda, Xeneize faces the Pirata at La Bombonera for matchday 13 of the Professional League.

The Club Atlético Boca Juniors will experience an emotionally charged day this Saturday from 6:15 PM, when they host Belgrano de Córdoba for matchday 13 of the Torneo Clausura, in what will be their first match after the passing of Miguel Ángel Russo, one of the most beloved figures in the club’s history. The match will take place at La Bombonera, with Pablo Dóvalo as the referee and broadcast on ESPN Premium.

Beyond the emotional context, Xeneize comes into the match in solid sporting form: they are coming off a 5-0 win over Newell’s and remain second in the annual standings, consolidating their performance under Claudio Úbeda. However, the week was marked by sorrow and several important updates within the squad.

The main negative news was the serious injury to Alan Velasco, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament. On the other hand, Úbeda is planning the return of Carlos Palacios to the starting lineup, although Kevin Zenón is also competing for that spot. Additionally, the coach will have to deal with a significant absence: Edinson Cavani was unable to recover from his physical issues and has been ruled out. In light of this, the offensive duo of Miguel Merentiel and Milton Giménez will continue to start.

Another piece of good news for Boca was the return of Leandro Paredes, who rejoined the group after his participation in the FIFA date with the Argentina National Team. The midfielder will be one of the key players to maintain control of the game against the Pirata.

For their part, Belgrano arrives at La Bombonera needing to pick up points. The team led by Ricardo Zielinski sits in tenth place with 15 points, the result of three wins, six draws, and three losses, and is just one point away from the round of 16 qualification zone. The Pirata is on a run of three consecutive draws, including a 0-0 against Talleres in the Córdoba derby and a 1-1 against Estudiantes, and also has the Argentine Cup semifinals on the horizon, where they will face Argentinos Juniors next October 23.

Boca Juniors: Agustín Marchesín; Juan Barinaga, Lautaro Di Lollo, Ayrton Costa, Lautaro Blanco; Brian Aguirre, Rodrigo Battaglia, Leandro Paredes, Carlos Palacios; Miguel Merentiel and Milton Giménez. Coach: Claudio Úbeda.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.