Boca player ratings after heated 1-1 with Cruzeiro at La Bombonera | OneFootball

Boca Juniors were held 1-1 by Cruzeiro at La Bombonera in Copa Libertadores Group D, Miguel Merentiel scoring for the hosts. After elimination in the Apertura last sixteen, their focus is firmly on progressing from the group, which remains within their control.

The hosts dominated the first half, Leandro Paredes dictating and delivering the inswinging free-kick that Merentiel forced in. Otávio denied Tomás Aranda and Milton Giménez. According to LaNumer12.com.ar, VAR again went against Boca, with a second goal ruled out for handball after a review by referee Valenzuela.

Goalkeeper Leandro Brey thwarted Kaio Jorge before the interval. Paredes bossed midfield and combined well with Milton Delgado, and Tomás Belmonte made his Libertadores debut replacing the suspended Ascacibar. Malcom Braida looked assured on his first start at right-back.

Cruzeiro improved after the break and levelled through Fagner's fierce strike, Brey got a touch but could not keep it out. The Boca keeper later denied Néiser Villarreal, and Gerson was sent off for a heavy challenge on Paredes, who continued.

Exequiel Zeballos threatened after a fine pass from Giménez but Otávio saved, and the forward later headed wide. Ayrton Costa was booked and will serve a one-match ban, missing the meeting with Universidad Católica at La Bombonera.

The ratings underlined Merentiel as the pick, with strong showings from Paredes and Tomás Aranda and a solid display by Brey and Lautaro Di Lollo. Braida impressed out of position, while Giménez faded. Claudio Úbeda's decision to make only two substitutions drew scrutiny.

Source: LaNumer12.com.ar