Boca Juniors vs SC Barcelona: Prediction, H2H and probable lineups — April 15, 2026
On Wednesday, April 15, in the second round of the Copa Libertadores, Boca Juniors will host Ecuador's Barcelona SC at home. Find out more about the teams' form and get a detailed match prediction below.
See also: Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona prediction and betting tips 14 April 2026
Match preview
Boca Juniors, under the guidance of Claudio Ubeda, have set their sights on reclaiming South American dominance in 2026. After competing in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, the squad underwent significant upgrades. The Blue and Gold are among the leaders in the current Argentine Primera, sitting third with 21 points, and have not lost an international match at La Bombonera in over a year. Their main strength lies in a well-balanced midfield and the lethal finishing of Miguel Merentiel. The major setback ahead of this fixture is the injury to defender Aaron Anselmino, who will miss the match due to a thigh problem.
Barcelona SC, managed by Cesar Acosta, are currently second in the Ecuadorian championship. The team favors an attacking style, but traditionally adopts a more cautious approach in Copa Libertadores away matches. In the previous round (April 8), the Ecuadorians narrowly lost 1-0 to Cruzeiro. The visitors have a significant loss in midfield: Jesus Trindade picked up an injury in the last league match and is a major doubt for this game. Veteran defender Franklin Guerra is also left out of the squad.
Tactically, Boca Juniors will apply intense pressure from the opening whistle, utilizing the flanks where Advincula and Blanco are highly active. Barcelona SC will likely opt for a 4-5-1 formation, aiming to hit on the break through Janner Corozo.
Probable lineups
Boca Juniors: Brey — Advincula, Lema, Rojo, Blanco — Belmonte, Miramon, Medina, Zenon — Merentiel, Gimenez
SC Barcelona: Mendoza — Byron Castillo, Nicolas Ramirez, Sosa, Anibal Chala — Leonai Souza, Arroyo, Janner Corozo, Oyola, Rivero — Octavio
Match facts & head-to-head
- The last time these teams met was in 2021: Barcelona beat Boca 1-0 at home and drew 0-0 away.
- Boca Juniors are unbeaten in their last 11 matches: five wins and six draws.
- Barcelona have lost two of their last ten games, winning four times.
Prediction
I expect a tight, defensive match with very few clear chances or goals. My prediction: under 2.5 goals at 1.55
