The Boca Juniors team experienced a disastrous night on Tuesday as they fell in a penalty shootout against Alianza Lima. This result meant the elimination of the Argentine team in their attempt to reach the group stage of the Copa Libertadores, generating great uncertainty around Fernando Gago's future as head coach.
During the match, Boca had the opportunity to equalize the series relatively easily, but they failed to capitalize on it. Despite some attempts towards the end of the match, such as a shot that hit the crossbar and an own goal for Boca, the team couldn't hold firm against Alianza Lima. The crowd, which filled La Bombonera, shifted from euphoria to frustration as they watched the home team fail to execute their game.
The own goal by Miguel Trauco seemed to give Boca a momentary breather, but this relief was short-lived as Alianza Lima managed to equalize the match with a header from Hernán Barcos. From that moment on, pressure and anxiety took over the Argentine team, which displayed imprecise and uninspired play.
Throughout the match, several dangerous plays stood out from players like Edinson Cavani and Kevin Zenón, as well as key interventions from goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra. However, goal-scoring opportunities were not capitalized on, and Boca ultimately succumbed to Alianza Lima in the penalty shootout.
Despite the changes made by Fernando Gago and the team's effort to turn the result around, Boca could not surpass their rival in the penalty shootout. The night concluded with a series of accurate shots from Alianza Lima's players, while Boca said goodbye to the Copa Libertadores amidst disappointment and confusion.
