Boca Juniors Aims to Extend Dominant Home Form in Copa Libertadores Boca Juniors is set to continue its impressive run in the Copa Libertadores 2026 as it hosts Barcelona de Ecuador in a crucial Group Stage match at La Bombonera. The Xeneize, already boasting a strong start to the competition, seeks to build on its recent victory over Universidad Católica and maintain its unbeaten streak at home in the tournament. The match, scheduled for 21:00 local time, marks the second round of the group phase and carries significant weight in shaping Boca’s path to the next round. The Xeneize’s performance in La Bombonera has been nothing short of dominant. Since December 2020, Boca has not suffered a defeat in its home stadium during the Copa Libertadores, a streak that now spans 17 consecutive matches. This record includes a notable draw against Barcelona in 2021, where the teams split points 0-0. The current unbeaten run has been bolstered by a mix of victories and draws, with 9 wins and 8 draws in 17 games, showcasing the team’s resilience and tactical discipline under pressure. Boca’s recent form in the Libertadores has been a key factor in its confidence heading into this match. After a 2-1 victory over Universidad Católica in Santiago, the team is eager to extend its winning momentum. The club’s ability to perform consistently at home has been a defining trait, with fans playing a crucial role in creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. This psychological edge, combined with the tactical setup, has made La Bombonera a fortress for Boca in continental competition. The Xeneize’s home record extends beyond the Libertadores. In all CONMEBOL-organized tournaments, Boca has maintained an impressive 22-match unbeaten streak at La Bombonera, with 13 wins and 9 draws.#copa_libertadores #la_bombonera #boca_juniors #barcelona_ecuador #sebastian_battaglia
Will Lionel Messi Feature? Scaloni Breaks Silence, Press Conference Turns Emotional Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed on March 31, 2026, that Lionel Messi will start in the friendly match against Zambia on April 1, 2026, at the La Bombonera stadium in Buenos Aires. This marks Messi’s first start of the March international break following his substitute appearance in Argentina’s 2-1 victory over Mauritania. Scaloni emphasized that Messi’s inclusion in the lineup is a priority, stating, “Yes, I think he will start from the beginning tomorrow. The important thing is that he comes and enjoys it. That he enjoys being at the World Cup, which in theory would be the last, but I would not dare to say anything, but that he enjoys it.” The announcement came amid a significant setback for Argentina’s squad. Joaquin Panichelli, a 23-year-old forward for Strasbourg, tore his cruciate ligaments during training on March 30, 2026. The injury sidelines the player, who had emerged as a key backup for the World Cup, stepping in behind Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. Scaloni expressed deep disappointment over the injury, noting its potential impact on Argentina’s preparations for the tournament. The press conference took an emotional turn when Scaloni addressed Panichelli’s condition. He revealed that the young forward visited the training facility despite his injury, a gesture that moved the coaching staff. “It is very difficult… We have spoken with him. He even took the trouble to come to the training facility after they gave him the result. He could have stayed at the hotel in peace, but he came here and asked to speak with us,” Scaloni said, struggling to contain his emotions. Scaloni also reflected on the broader challenges of building a championship-ready team.#lionel_messi #joaquin_panichelli #strasbourg #lionel_scaloni #la_bombonera
Argentina to Start Lionel Messi for Zambia Friendly at La Bombonera Argentina national team manager Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi will start the friendly match against Zambia on Tuesday night at La Bombonera stadium. The decision marks Messi’s first start of the March international window, following his substitution in the 2-1 victory over Mauritania on March 27. Scaloni emphasized that the friendly against Zambia will be a key opportunity to evaluate players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as part of a broader process to finalize the 26-player roster. The reigning World Cup champions secured a narrow 2-1 win over Mauritania, a team ranked 115th in the FIFA rankings and with no World Cup history. Scaloni acknowledged the match as a critical test, stating that performances in such games will inform the selection process. “The game the other night could’ve been an alert, it’s things that as a head coach one starts looking at and later, we will decide,” he said. The manager reiterated that the focus will be on the team’s best interests, with decisions based on player performance. Scaloni also addressed Messi’s potential participation in the World Cup, noting that while the forward has not yet confirmed his decision to join the squad, the team remains eager to have him. “The important thing is that he comes and enjoys it. That he enjoy being at the World Cup, which in theory would be the last, but I wouldn’t dare to say anything, but that he enjoys it,” Scaloni said. He added that Messi’s presence would be a significant draw for fans globally, stating, “I think it’s not just Argentines who want to see him. Everyone wants to see him train, see him play, and that is what we all wish for.#lionel_messi #2026_fifa_world_cup #lionel_scaloni #zambia #la_bombonera
