In a controversial clash, Boca edge past Estudiantes de La Plata 2-1 | OneFootball

Boca made a strong impression in La Plata and secured a highly impactful victory by defeating Estudiantes 2-1 in the 14th round of the 2025 Clausura Tournament. Thanks to the goals from Exequiel Zeballos and Miguel Merentiel, Boca brings more than just three points in their pocket: it allowed them to temporarily become the leader of zone A, took a vital step towards qualifying for the Libertadores through the annual table, and, as a bonus, they are well-prepared to face River next Sunday.

The match was a rollercoaster of emotions. At least in the second half, since the first half had its first notable play towards the end, closing with Zeballos' frustration after missing a penalty by hitting the post. However, the same Changuito redeemed himself early in the second half by scoring the 1-0 at three minutes in.

Nevertheless, the lead quickly slipped from Claudio Úbeda's team's hands. Ten minutes later, Estudiantes equalized from the penalty spot through Edwuin Cetré, who chipped the ball and scored the 1-1, at a moment when "Pincha" was taking control of the midfield.

The outcome of the match was marked by the intervention of VAR and drama. At 40 minutes, technology corrected a decision by referee Leandro Rey Hilfer and confirmed the direct expulsion of Neves for a harsh foul on Ander Herrera at shin height, leaving Estudiantes with ten men. With numerical superiority and an extended match, Pincha kept trying, but a withdrawn Boca ended up winning. At 48 minutes, they launched a counterattack that resulted in another foul in the area, leading Rey Hilfer to call the third penalty of the day.

It was Merentiel who took the final responsibility. The Uruguayan forward opened his foot and executed the shot with precision, sealing the 2-1 that sparked the visitors' celebration. Thus, Boca reached 23 points to consolidate their leadership alongside Unión in zone A. But, most importantly, it provided a morale boost ahead of the imminent Superclásico against River Plate. Without playing their best game, Úbeda's team prevailed in a challenging context.

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