According to Argentine media reports, Paredes has taken a hard line, directly demanding that the coach start him in the Copa Sudamericana match against Ranca Guaio Higgins. This news has caused an uproar, as the midfielder has just played in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain and is currently suffering from a rib injury.
An effort that is close to the limit
Paredes came on as a substitute in the second half of the World Cup final four days ago, and now he has suffered a rib fracture, which should normally require him to rest completely. However, multiple sports media outlets in Argentina and Chile have confirmed that the player insists on wearing the blue and yellow jersey in this Copa Sudamericana Round of 32 match.
The experienced midfielder's sacrifice has sparked division among the team's medical staff and fans. Some praised the player's unconditional dedication, while others worried that the high intensity of continental competitions during this crucial stage of the season would worsen his injury.
No disciplinary action will be taken after the final.
Aside from questions about his physical condition, there were also doubts about whether the incident at the end of the World Cup final would lead to punishment. However, an investigative report published by the BBC clarified the midfielder's situation at the FIFA level.
FIFA confirmed to the media outlet that the player's disciplinary record shows no violations since the final. This means Paredes is fully reinstated for CONMEBOL continental competitions and faces no rule-related obstacles to playing.
The new signing's anticipated debut
Besides Paredes' situation, this match against the Chilean team will also bring significant changes to the squad of this La Ribera side. Everyone is focused on the new signings Boca Juniors have made for this knockout stage.
All signs indicate that Colombian players Sebastián Aston Villa and Álvaro Montero will make their official debuts for Boca Juniors. Montero will guard the goal, while the Colombian attacker will provide a speed advantage in the attacking third.
Absences and adjustments in the lineup
As for Boca Juniors' Chilean players, their situations in this Copa Sudamericana are quite different. Midfielder Willems Alarcón will start from the bench, waiting for his chance to play.
On the other hand, Diego Carlos Palacios was left out of the squad due to physical problems and will miss this match. This absence has forced the coaching staff to reorganize the attacking play in order to finalize the starting lineup.
