Boca Juniors claimed a narrow victory over São Paulo on Tuesday in the opening match of their 2026 CONMEBOL Sudamericana quarterfinal series. Playing at home in Buenos Aires, the Argentine club secured a 1-0 win courtesy of a goal from Merentiel, putting them ahead in the two-legged tie.
The first half demonstrated competitive balance between the two South American powerhouses, with both squads generating scoring opportunities. São Paulo came close on multiple occasions, including a well-struck header from Luciano that forced a quality save from the home goalkeeper. Despite their attacking efforts, the Brazilian visitors were unable to convert their chances before halftime, leaving the match goalless at the break.
Boca Juniors capitalized on their home advantage after the interval, breaking through early in the second half with Merentiel’s decisive goal. São Paulo responded with continued pressure and created additional chances, but the goalkeeper’s heroics and defensive resolve kept the visitors at bay through the final whistle.
The return leg is scheduled for next Tuesday at MorumBIS in São Paulo, giving Tricolor the opportunity to overturn the deficit on home soil. Before that crucial encounter, São Paulo faces Palmeiras on Saturday in a Brasileirão match at Nubank Parque.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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