Will Leandro Paredes Play Against Vasco Da Gama? The Doubt That Has Boca on Edge
Boca decides against Vasco da Gama their place in the final of the Copa Sudamericana and the big question is Leandro Paredes
Boca Juniors' rematch against Vasco da Gama in the Copa Sudamericana has one question that draws all eyes, the presence of Leandro Paredes from the start.
The midfielder wants to play, trained alongside the group in Rio de Janeiro and responded well, though his starting spot is still not confirmed. The reason is clear, he is only 11 days into his recovery from a grade 2 tear in the hamstring, an injury that normally requires more time for caution.
In that context, Rodolfo Arruabarrena was blunt about the risk of including him. The coach warned that there is a risk in putting him in and will decide at the last minute whether to place him among the eleven starters.
The logic of "el Vasco" is simple, he will prioritize what is best for the team sportingly in order to secure a place in the final of the Copa Sudamericana. It is not about rushing a decision under pressure, but about evaluating what serves the team best in a decisive match.
El Vasco's approach
On the other side, el Vasco has already made his approach clear, he asked for a long and balanced match, alternating defense and attack, without rushing from the start. That is, a coach who will not throw caution to the wind in the opening minutes, but who will look to manage the tempo and strike at the right moment. That forces Boca to be patient and, above all, not to give away spaces.
Arruabarrena's message
Beyond the specific doubt about Paredes, Arruabarrena highlighted the team's character and hoped to improve the performance shown in the first leg to give the fans something to celebrate. The message is clear, qualification is built with personality and with superior play, not just with a big name in the lineup.
So the question hanging in the air is direct, will Leandro Paredes play against Vasco da Gama? The answer will only be known at the last minute, when the coach decides whether the midfielder is in condition to take on the risk or whether, on the contrary, he protects him with what is coming up in mind. What is certain is that Boca needs to strike in Rio de Janeiro and the presence or absence of Paredes will be one of the keys of the night.
Leandro Daniel Paredes
CA Boca Juniors
