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- The “Group of Death” in the 2026 Copa Libertadores: Boca Juniors Lands in the Toughest Section of the Tournament
The “Group of Death” in the 2026 Copa Libertadores: Boca Juniors Lands in the Toughest Section of the Tournament
The Libertadores draw delivered a group packed with tension from matchday one… full of history, revenge, and everything at stake.
A return that begins with maximum difficulty
The 2026 CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores draw has set up a high-pressure scenario for Boca Juniors, who return to the tournament after two years away and must now face the so-called “group of death.”
Managed by Claudio Ubeda, Boca was placed in Group D alongside Cruzeiro, Universidad Católica, and Barcelona SC, a mix of tradition, strong current form, and demanding travel that raises the level of difficulty from the very start.
Cruzeiro: history and unfinished business
The Brazilian side emerges as one of the toughest challenges in the group. Cruzeiro, a two-time Copa Libertadores champion, returns to the competition after several years away, aiming to reestablish itself among South America’s elite.
Although the head-to-head record favors Boca Juniors, previous meetings between the two clubs include decisive and memorable clashes. From the 1977 final to more recent encounters, the Belo Horizonte side has proven to be a dangerous opponent capable of competing at the highest level.
Universidad Católica: experience on the continental stage
The Chilean club arrives as runner-up in its domestic league and brings extensive international experience, marking its 30th participation in the tournament. Universidad Católica represents a disciplined and battle-tested opponent.
Past meetings between these teams include intense encounters, such as the 2005 Copa Sudamericana semifinal, where Boca advanced in a tightly contested series.
Barcelona SC and a special reunion
The Ecuadorian side comes into the group in strong form after advancing through difficult qualifying rounds, eliminating high-level opponents and showing its competitive edge.
This matchup also carries an emotional storyline, as Darío Benedetto will face his former club. A detail that adds extra intrigue to a group already filled with high-stakes battles.
No margin for error in the toughest group
The situation is clear: Boca Juniors must perform at its best from the very first matchday. The key will be to stay strong at home and collect crucial points on the road in a group where every mistake can be costly.
Because in this group… there are no easy games, no forgiving opponents—just one of the most difficult paths to the knockout stage of the Copa Libertadores.
