Sarmiento Junín 0–0 Boca Juniors: Giant‑Killing Attempt Falls Just Short

In one of the most anticipated Copa Argentina ties of the round, Sarmiento Junín held Boca Juniors to a goalless draw at the Estadio Ciudad de La Plata. The Primera División side dominated possession but could not break down a tenacious Sarmiento defence. The match will now be decided from the penalty spot.

Match Overview

Boca Juniors arrived with a star‑studded lineup, including their captain and top scorer. Sarmiento, meanwhile, adopted a pragmatic approach, packing the midfield and looking to frustrate. The first 20 minutes were tense, with Boca struggling to find rhythm on a heavy pitch.

Key Moments

• 8th minute: Boca’s left‑back sent in a dangerous cross, but the striker’s header flew wide under pressure.
• 34th minute: A powerful strike from outside the box by Sarmiento’s midfielder was tipped over the bar by the Boca goalkeeper – the best chance of the half.
• 51st minute: Boca thought they had scored when a shot from close range was blocked, and the rebound was fired in, only for the offside flag to intervene.
• 73rd minute: Sarmiento’s ‘keeper produced a magnificent double save, first denying a header and then a follow‑up volley.
• 88th minute: A late corner for Boca was met by a powerful header, but the defender on the line cleared it with a bicycle kick.

Tactical Analysis

Boca Juniors employed their traditional 4‑3‑3, but Sarmiento’s disciplined 5‑3‑2 left little space in central areas. Boca’s wingers cut inside repeatedly, but Sarmiento’s full‑backs stuck tight. On the rare occasions Boca did get behind, the final ball was lacking. Sarmiento’s counter‑attacks were few but dangerous, almost punishing Boca’s high line.

Standout Performers

• Sarmiento goalkeeper: Man of the match with three crucial saves.
• Boca Juniors holding midfielder: Covered ground tirelessly but could not unlock the defence.

As the tie moved to penalties, Boca Juniors held their nerve to win 5–3 and advance. Sarmiento Junín departed with heads held high, having pushed one of Argentina’s giants to the limit. The Copa Argentina once again showed that no opponent can be taken lightly.