Boca Faces Defensive Crisis: Costa Injured, Russo and Rojo Clash Ahead of Crucial Match

Boca Juniors are dealing with serious defensive issues ahead of their must-win final group match at the Club World Cup. The Argentine giants will be without key center-back Ayrton Costa, who suffered a muscle tear and is out for the rest of the tournament.

Costa had been one of Boca’s standout performers against Benfica and Bayern Munich, despite joining the squad just days before the tournament due to visa delays. His absence leaves coach Miguel Ángel Russo scrambling for solutions in a depleted backline.

Nicolás Figal remains suspended after his red card in Boca’s opening match, and Marcos Rojo is now out of the picture following a reported confrontation with Russo. According to journalist Damián Villagra, Rojo expressed frustration at not being selected and had a heated exchange with the coach. He skipped Saturday’s training session, citing physical discomfort and opting to work in the gym. Recent reports suggest the Club World Cup might signal his exit from Boca.

As a result, newly signed defender Marco Pellegrino—recently recovered from an injury with Huracán—is expected to make his debut alongside Lautaro Di Lollo in the crucial clash against Auckland City. Boca must win by a large margin of goals and hope for a favorable outcome in the Bayern-Benfica match to stay alive in the tournament.