Boca Juniors kicked off the 2026 Apertura Tournament with a narrow 1-0 win over Deportivo Riestra at La Bombonera. Lautaro Di Lollo scored the only goal with a header in the 32nd minute of the second half, assisted by Leandro Paredes. Claudio Úbeda's side overcame injuries to start on a positive note.
Boca Juniors made their debut in the 2026 Apertura Tournament with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Deportivo Riestra at La Bombonera, Buenos Aires' iconic stadium. The match, played on Sunday, January 25, saw Boca hampered by injuries to key forwards like Miguel Merentiel, Edinson Cavani, and Milton Giménez, forcing Lucas Janson to improvise as the offensive reference.
The first half ended 0-0, with Boca creating the clearest chances. At the 2nd minute, a quick free kick from Paredes to Exequiel Zeballos led to a headed effort from Di Lollo that went wide. Later, at the 17th, Nicolás Belmonte headed a cross, but goalkeeper Ignacio Arce made a save for Riestra. At the 19th, Di Lollo had another header chance that Arce held, and the rebound hit the post after Lautaro Blanco's attempt.
The second half remained tight. Riestra pressed physically, targeting Paredes, but Boca held possession. Úbeda's substitutions included Equi Fernández for Ander Herrera at the 33rd, and earlier Iker Zufiaurre for Janson and Aguirre for Alan Velasco. The goal came at the 31st minute of the second half: Paredes delivered a precise cross from a free kick, and Di Lollo outjumped in the box to head it past Arce.
With the lead, Boca dropped back and withstood Riestra's pressure. Agustín Marchesín made a crucial save at the 40th against Mariano Bracamonte's shot. The visitors even brought their goalkeeper into the box at the end, but Boca defended stoutly to secure the winning debut.
Post-match, Di Lollo appreciated the result: “Es importante arrancar ganando” (It's important to start winning). Leandro Paredes addressed Juan Román Riquelme's comments on the squad's 'debt' to fans, stressing the weight of the jersey. Claudio Úbeda highlighted injured players' recovery and messaged Santiago Ascacíbar, praising his personality but noting 'no one has a guaranteed spot.' He also said Rodrigo Battaglia will need surgery.
Boca will visit defending champions Estudiantes on Wednesday in La Plata, while Riestra hosts Defensa y Justicia on Thursday.
