Boca Juniors is set to kick off the 2026 season under the direction of coach Claudio Úbeda. The team’s first official match will take place against Deportivo Riestra this Sunday at 18:30 at La Bombonera, as part of the inaugural round of the Torneo Apertura.
Claudio Úbeda’s Tactical Adjustments
In preparation for this match, Úbeda has made several key decisions regarding the starting lineup. Significant changes have been noted compared to the previous season’s formation.
- Tactical Shift: The team will implement a new formation, moving away from the double striker setup.
- Formation Style: Úbeda’s approach resembles a “Guillermo style” with four defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards.
Key Player Changes
In the latest pre-season friendly against Olimpia of Paraguay, several players have seen alterations in their positions and roles.
- Injury Replacement: Lucas Janson takes the spot of Miguel Merentiel, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
- Defensive Reinforcement: Lautaro Di Lollo will return to the starting lineup, replacing Nicolás Figal.
- Left-Back Update: Lautaro Blanco is set to play left-back, filling in for Malcom Braida.
- Midfield Selection: Tomás Belmonte has earned a starting position over Milton Delgado after impressive performances in practice and the friendly.
Boca’s Starting XI Against Riestra
For the opening match of the 2026 Torneo Apertura, Claudio Úbeda has finalized the following lineup:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Agustín Marchesín |
| Defender | Juan Barinaga |
| Defender | Lautaro Di Lollo |
| Defender | Ayrton Costa |
| Defender | Lautaro Blanco |
| Midfielder | Ander Herrera |
| Midfielder | Tomás Belmonte |
| Midfielder | Leandro Paredes |
| Forward | Alan Velasco |
| Forward | Lucas Janson |
| Forward | Exequiel Zeballos |
As the 2026 season begins, all eyes will be on Boca Juniors and Claudio Úbeda’s tactics against Deportivo Riestra. The alterations in the lineup and strategy signal an ambitious start for the Xeneizes.
