Boca Scrambles to Reshape Defense Ahead of Bayern Clash

Boca Juniors will face Bayern Munich on Friday without two key players from their 2-2 draw against Benfica. As reported by TyC Sports, coach Miguel Ángel Russo must replace both Ander Herrera and Nicolás Figal ahead of their second Club World Cup match at Hard Rock Stadium.

Herrera, who returned after three months out, suffered a fresh muscle injury and was also sent off for dissent. The medical report is still pending. Figal, meanwhile, received a straight red card for a reckless challenge and will also miss out. Both have been handed four-match bans for their respective expulsions, meaning they won't be available until a potential semifinal.

With limited defensive options, Russo is considering 20-year-old Lautaro Di Lollo, recently cleared after a minor injury, or shifting Rodrigo Battaglia to center back. Battaglia impressed in midfield against Benfica, even scoring a header, but could drop into defense if needed. Should that happen, Tomás Belmonte would likely start at the base of midfield, possibly joined by Chilean Williams Alarcón.

Boca’s injury list remains extensive: Marco Pellegrino and Juan Barinaga rejoined training, but Edinson Cavani, Mateo Mendía, Agustín Martegani, and Frank Fabra are still out.

Facing a dominant Bayern side, Boca will need to regroup quickly. Friday’s match at 10 p.m. (Argentina time) could prove decisive in their quest to reach the knockout stage.