Boca Juniors was eliminated from the 2025 Copa Libertadores in Phase 2 after falling in the penalty shootout against Alianza Lima. Despite the confidence placed in Leandro Brey, the goalkeeper did not manage to stop any of the penalty kicks from the Peruvian players. Controversy arose over the decision of coach Fernando Gago to substitute Agustín Marchesín for Brey just before the shootout.
According to Gago, the goalkeeper change was not due to an injury but rather a pre-planned strategy. The coach assured that the replacement was the result of an analysis in conjunction with Marchesín and the goalkeeper coach. Gago highlighted Leandro Brey’s abilities to save penalties and his knowledge of the characteristics of the opposing shooters.
In a press conference, Gago explained: "He is a goalkeeper who has very good records saving penalties. Everything is studied and analyzed with the goalkeeper coach." Despite the preparation, the strategy did not work on this occasion. The defeat at La Bombonera meant Boca Juniors' elimination from the competition, sparking criticism and debate around the decision made at a crucial moment of the match.
