Boca received bad news ahead of their upcoming decisive match. Following the 1-1 draw against Platense in the Clausura Tournament, Leandro Paredes, Marco Pellegrino, and Leandro Lozano underwent tests for various muscle discomforts and were ruled out for the second leg of the round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana against Recoleta.
The three had been starters in Vicente López, but none were able to complete the match. On one hand, Paredes and Pellegrino were substituted during halftime, while Lozano left the field with about 20 minutes remaining.
According to journalist Augusto César, the tests determined that all three players suffer from muscle injuries of varying degrees. The most complex situation appears to be that of Pellegrino, who has a more significant injury than his teammates. In any case, the recovery time will depend on the evolution of each case, and there is still no established date for their respective returns.
Paredes, Pellegrino, and Lozano will be unavailable due to injury for Boca's return match against Recoleta
Paredes' absence poses a particular problem for Rodolfo Arruabarrena, as he is a key player in midfield and his replacement is not defined. By characteristics, Camilo Rey Domenech seems to be the most natural alternative, although the coach could also modify the scheme and opt for a more offensive team.
The absence of the Argentine National Team midfielder could also open the door for options like Kevin Zenón, Alan Velasco, or Sebastián Villa, in case Arruabarrena decides to push some players forward and change the composition of the midfield.
On the other hand, in defense, the options seem clearer. Just like in the match against Calamar, Ayrton Costa would take Pellegrino's place in the backline, while Dylan Gorosito appears as the main candidate to replace Lozano at right back.
With this scenario, Boca will have to face the return leg against Recoleta with three significant absences. The match will be held this Tuesdayat 19:00 at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asunción, Paraguay, and will determine which team advances to the quarter-finals of the Copa Sudamericana.
