Boca Captain Paredes Suffers Injury in Draw, Team Struggles Continue

Buenos Aires – Alarm bells are ringing at Boca Juniors after a frustrating 0-0 draw against Platense at La Bombonera and an injury to captain Leandro Paredes. The result leaves Claudio Úbeda’s side searching for answers in the early stages of Zone A of the Torneo Apertura.

Paredes Forced Off with Ankle Discomfort

The world champion, Leandro Paredes, signaled to the bench late in the match requesting a substitution. He was visibly uncomfortable, bending down and heading towards the substitutes’ bench to receive attention. I’ve been dealing with discomfort, but it’s part of the sport. I’ll be there when I need to be, sometimes better or worse, but always doing my best,

Leandro Paredes, speaking to ESPN

He was replaced by Milton Delgado. Images broadcast during the game showed Paredes attempting to shield his expressions of pain, but a clear moment of discomfort in his right ankle was captured. He left the field wearing flip-flops and with ice applied to the affected area.

Recurring Ankle Issue

The injury appears to be a continuation of an issue that has bothered Paredes since the semifinal match of the Torneo Clausura 2025 against Racing. While the pain subsided during the off-season, it has reportedly intensified with the recent schedule of matches.

Team Performance Concerns

The draw against Platense follows a recent defeat against Vélez, raising concerns about Boca’s form. The team’s performance has been described as poor, and fans are growing anxious ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures, including a match against Racing and the first round of the Copa Argentina on February 24.

Paredes Calls for Self-Criticism

Despite the setback, Paredes remained self-critical of the team’s performance. It hurts to play this kind of match and the two away games we played. We have to improve and be self-critical. It’s part of the confidence, the team’s performance, it improves day by day, and personally. The group is fine, there’s no choice but to keep improving and think about what was done wrong, he stated.

Leandro Paredes, speaking to ESPN

Úbeda’s Tactical Adjustments

Prior to the match, coach Claudio Úbeda had experimented with tactical changes, including shifting Paredes to a more advanced role in an attempt to spark the attack. However, the experiment proved unsuccessful, and he was subsequently returned to his more familiar position at the base of midfield.

Lineup Against Platense

• Agustín Marchesín
• Juan Barinaga
• Lautaro Di Lollo
• Ayrton Costa
• Lautaro Blanco
• Santiago Ascacíbar
• Leandro Paredes
• Williams Alarcón
• Janson or Aranda
• Miguel Merentiel
• Ángel Romero