Boca defeated Argentinos with authority and, had they been more precise, could have easily thrashed them. Take note: this is the president’s team.
For those who argue that you need months to see a coach’s influence, they should check out this first match of Juan Román Riquelme’s interim period. Because let’s be honest, even if Herrón takes to the field with a group of assistants, the real coach and mentor of this team is the president. An interim president, which is not the same as a president in the interim. If Román had his say in the lineups for all the coaches under his management, he will have even more influence here, where Herrón seems like his alter ego or, perhaps, his direct enforcer.
But let’s go back to the game and the obvious differences between this Boca and the dismal Martínez era, which fortunately ended — and never should have begun. Riquelme’s team doesn’t play out from the back, nor does it attempt any unnecessary maneuvers with players who aren’t equipped for it. Long balls forward and fight for the second ball. Quick recovery and swift transitions. Direct play, no pointless passing or stalling. Waves of attacks with little build-up. It’s almost like a Falcioni-style team, which is ironic. Yet, with this basic approach, Boca created more danger in this match than in the previous four or five combined. They were faster, more agile, less ponderous and sluggish. Younger. Brey, Anselmino, Blanco, Miramón, Aguirre, and Zenón are all youngsters, lowering the average age of those sluggish lineups that could barely move.
Also notable: Boca’s player ratings against Argentinos Juniors, from the Professional League
There was only one goal, but it could’ve been a rout if Cavani hadn’t missed a couple of unbelievable chances, if Zeballos hadn’t been so selfish, or if Merentiel had been sharper (though he’s always a Beast). They also disallowed a goal by Giménez due to a FIFA rule that breaks the spirit of the game. Giménez is another Beast, brimming with energy and confidence, always hitting the target. It’s almost unfair he’s not a starter. Obviously, Cavani is Cavani, with touches of class — like the magnificent control, flick, and assist to Changuito on the goal (though the finish was poor). But his back is well-covered, especially now, as his recovery takes longer than usual.
From midfield back, however, there’s less to praise. Belmonte remains invisible, and while Miramón shows glimpses of talent, they’re not ready to control the midfield. Not yet. If this crisis-ridden Argentinos side, also led by an interim coach, caused us trouble, imagine what could happen against a more serious, high-caliber opponent. Fortunately, Brey performed well when called upon — he was the standout, despite the miscommunication with Lema during a late cross. It seems the “Butcher” isn’t used to having a brave goalkeeper behind him, one who takes risks.
Boca Juniors vs Argentinos Juniors: VAR disallowed Giménez’s handball goal (1-0)Boca Juniors vs Argentinos Juniors: VAR disallowed Giménez’s handball goal (1-0)
Now we’ll have to see what happens with the coaching role. For now, despite the uncertainty, there were no public complaints in a tamed Bombonera. Gago’s future is still undecided, and no one seems particularly eager for his arrival, given his tendency to lose crucial matches. The interim coach passed this first test. He made all five substitutions, introduced almost all of the 2024 signings (Lema, Blanco, Zenón, Barinaga, Miramón, Belmonte, Aguirre, Giménez)… Clearly, he understands what the president wants. Oh, sorry, I forgot — the interim coach, Riquelme, is also the president. Maybe — just maybe — there won’t be any conflicts between them. But you never know…
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