Boca vs Defensa y Justicia
Despite their shocking failure in the Copa Libertadores, Boca Juniors continue to stay strong in the league. Last week, they secured a valuable 3-0 away victory over Central Córdoba, a team that had yet to lose at home. With that result, Boca extended their winning streak to five matches in the Torneo Apertura, reaching 20 points, just one behind the leaders of Group A (Tigre and Argentinos Juniors). Additionally, Boca remain unbeaten in their last 11 home games in this competition, with eight wins and three draws. Ander Herrera succumbed to a muscle problem and is unavailable. Alan Velasco and Rodrigo Battaglia will be available on Sunday after recovering from their injuries.
Defensa y Justicia secured three crucial points last Sunday, defeating Estudiantes (one of Group A’s leaders at the time) 1-0 at home, thanks to Gastón Togni’s goal in the 87th minute. With this victory, Pablo De Muner’s team strengthen their position in the playoff zone, accumulating 17 points after losing just one of their last eight matches (five wins and two draws). Away from home, Defensa have lost just once in their last nine outings (five wins and three draws).
I can’t trust Boca yet despite their recent good results. They’ve been strong at home but Defensa should give them trouble, with striker Miritello back from suspension and their fast attack, they are on a good run when playing away and I’ll expect them not to lose here.