Boca Juniors and Velez Sarsfield are set to clash in the Argentine Primera Division on June 14, 2024, at the Estadio Alberto Jose Armando.
Both teams are looking to bounce back from inconsistent starts to the season, and here is everything you need to know.
Team Form
Boca Juniors
Boca Juniors have had a rocky start to the season, currently positioned in 18th place.
Despite a strong performance in the Copa de la Liga Professional, where they reached the semi-finals, their league form has been less impressive. Out of their first four games, they secured only one victory, a 4-2 win against Central Cordoba SdE.
Their other matches against Atletico Tucuman, Talleres de Cordoba, and Platense saw them fail to score, highlighting their struggle in the offensive department.
In contrast, their performance in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana has been commendable, securing 11 points from six matches and finishing second in their group.
Velez Sarsfield
Velez Sarsfield, currently sitting in 15th place, also had a mixed start.
They reached the final of the Copa de la Liga Professional but lost to Estudiantes on penalties.
They began their league campaign with a 3-1 loss to Gimnasia La Plata but have since been unbeaten in their last four games across all competitions. This includes a notable 1-0 win over Newell's Old Boys and draws against Independiente and Atletico Tucuman.
Their recent 2-1 victory over Arsenal in the Copa Argentina further underscores their resilience.
Team News
Boca Juniors
Boca Juniors will be without Luis Advincula, who is with the Peru squad for the 2024 Copa America, and Marcos Rojo, who is suspended.
This means potential starts for Lautaro Di Lollo and Frank Fabra. Lucas Janson might be replaced after being withdrawn early in the last game, with Edinson Cavani's participation uncertain.
Velez Sarsfield
Velez Sarsfield might revert to their last league-winning lineup. Thiago Fernandez, who scored as a substitute recently, could be a key player.
Braian Romero is expected to return to the starting lineup, replacing youngster Alejo Sarco.
Prediction
Given both teams' form, this matchup is expected to be closely contested. However, Boca Juniors may have a slight edge due to their home advantage.
A narrow victory for Boca Juniors, possibly 2-1, seems likely, and that's our prediction.