Boca defeated Estudiantes de La Plata 2-0 in a match corresponding to date 14 of the 2025 Apertura Tournament, held at La Bombonera. The goals of the home team came in the second half, by Carlos Palacios and Miguel Merentiel, at three and 18 minutes, respectively. Previously, in the first half, Edinson Cavani missed a penalty that was saved by goalkeeper Matías Mansilla.
The start of the match was marked by intensity and divided dominance, with a clear opportunity that Boca failed to capitalize on. Estudiantes started strong, with an offensive approach and depth on the flanks. Guido Carrillo was close to opening the scoring, but was met with a great save from Agustín Marchesín. Cristian Medina had another clear chance that was saved on the line by Luis Advíncula.
As time went on, Boca managed to balance the game and had their key moment when, at 38 minutes, Cavani was brought down in the area and a penalty was awarded. Despite the execution by the Uruguayan, Mansilla saved the shot, keeping the score level. Fernando Gago's team appeared imprecise in the final meters and resorted to tactical fouls to slow down the advances of the La Plata team.
At 18 minutes into the second half, Merentiel extended the lead with a powerful shot from outside the area that left Mansilla with no options. Estudiantes, who looked more dangerous in the first half, appeared subdued and without reaction, mainly relying on set-piece plays, without success. The flow of the game became rougher, with various bookings and discussions on the field, which led Gago to make substitutions thinking about the Superclásico.
With this victory, Boca consolidates itself as the leader of Zone A with 32 points and arrives in a good moment for the match against River. Estudiantes, on the other hand, jeopardized their qualification for the round of 16 by finishing sixth with 20 points. This result shows the solidity that Boca has achieved during this crucial stage of the championship, demonstrating good game management and the ability to impose themselves both football-wise and mentally.
