No retreat: Boca's starting XI against Vélez in Ducó,

No retreat: Boca's starting XI against Vélez in Ducó,

By Sports.

Context

Ayrton Costa, who returned to the starting XI, is an important part of Boca Juniors' defense. His ability to control the game and block attacks will be critical in their match against Vélez and in the upcoming matches in the Copa Sudamericana.

Why it matters

This match is important for Boca Juniors, not only to show their strength against Vélez Sarsfield but also in preparation for the upcoming Copa Sudamericana round of 16. The return of Ayrton Costa to the starting XI brings experience and stability to the defense, which will be critical to their success in the next matches.

Key Points

• No retreat: Boca's starting XI against Vélez in Ducó,.
• Boca Juniors, confidence and full-strength against Vélez; Ayrton Costa is back in the starting XI in place of Marco Pellegrino before the Copa Sudamericana R16.
• 🚨 No holding back: Boca's XI to host Vélez - Yahoo Sports.

There is no turning back for Boca Juniors. The club confirmed the starting XI for today's home match against Vélez Sarsfield at the Estadio Ducó, and coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena's message is clear: field the strongest team even with the Copa Sudamericana round of 16 looming in just three days. According to the announcement, Boca will repeat almost the same group that beat Estudiantes, only with one change at the back: Ayrton Costa will return to the starting line-up in place of Marco Pellegrino. With this selection, the balance and familiar combination in defense and midfield remains, while expect an aggressive and direct-to-goal approach against a traditionally tight Vélez. Boca expected formation and XI: Sergio Montero; Marcelo Lozano, Nicolás Di Lollo, Ayrton Costa, Valentín Blanco; Santiago Ascacibar, Paredes, Delgado; Aranda; Flores and Miguel Merentiel. In defense, Costa will join Di Lollo as the center of the backline, while Lozano and Blanco will extend and overlap on both flanks. In the midfield, the work of Ascacibar, Paredes, and Delgado is critical—a combination that can control the rhythm, cut off counterattacks, and release early passes to the advanced line. Aranda, on the other hand, will act as a bridge between the center and attack, looking for holes between the Vélez line.

Up front, the combination of Flores and Merentiel will be expected again. They both have movement behind the defense and can attack in half-spaces, which opens up options for quick one-twos and early crosses from the full-backs. That's also why Aranda's presence as a creator behind them is important—to improve supply and force the Vélez defense forward. Arruabarrena's decision not to rotate much, even with a Sudamericana knockout on the calendar, is an indication of confidence in the current momentum. In moments like these, continuity in the XI and structure often produces better chemistry, especially against fellow Argentine rivals like Vélez. For supporters, the message is simple: Boca are targeting a result today, while also remaining focused on the challenge of this week's continental tournament. As for Vélez, discipline and a compact defense are expected, so Boca's patience and patience in developing the attack is key. If the blue and gold can gain early control of the midfield led by Ascacibar and Paredes, the chances of opening the door for Merentiel and Flores will increase. All in all, the plan is clear: Boca will continue the winning formula against Estudiantes, plus the fresh legs and defensive presence of Ayrton Costa. Despite the heavy schedule, Xeneize will be looking to get the three points in Ducó as the tone for the upcoming knockout football in the Copa Sudamericana.

What's next

After the match against Vélez, Boca Juniors will prepare for their next challenge in the Copa Sudamericana, where a higher level of competition is expected. The performance of Ayrton Costa and the entire team will be key to their hopes of achieving success in the tournament.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in the match between Boca Juniors and Vélez Sarsfield?

Boca Juniors have confirmed the starting XI for their home match against Vélez Sarsfield at Estadio Ducó.

Who has confirmed Boca Juniors' starting XI?

Boca Juniors have confirmed their starting XI for the match.

Why is Ayrton Costa now back in the starting XI?

Ayrton Costa returns to the starting XI in place of Marco Pellegrino to maintain a balanced and familiar defensive combination.

What are the changes to the Boca Juniors lineup?

Only one change was made; Ayrton Costa returns to the starting line-up in place of Marco Pellegrino.

What is the expected style of play of Boca Juniors against Vélez?

Boca Juniors' approach against Vélez is expected to be aggressive and straight-to-goal.

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