On February 18, 2025, Alianza Lima will take on Boca Juniors at the Estadio Alejandro Villanueva for the first leg of the Copa Libertadores round two. This highly anticipated match will kick off at 19:30 local time and will be broadcast live on ESPN and Disney+
Fans are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying clash between these two storied teams. Alianza Lima is eager to make history, aiming to leverage home advantage against Boca Juniors, one of the giants of South American football.
Historically, Alianza Lima has faced significant challenges in the Copa Libertadores. According to Jesús Chirinos on Twitter, "Alianza Lima disputará su partido 188 en Copa Libertadores. En sus 187 anteriores, ganó 39, empató 38 y perdió 111; recibiendo 325 goles y anotando 173." The team aims to turn the tide on February 18, with full determination to reach the group stage, needing to secure favorable results at home.
For this match, Alianza Lima, coached by Néstor Gorosito, will start with Guillermo Viscarra as their goalkeeper. The defensive line is expected to feature Carlos Zambrano, Renzo Garcés, and Miguel Trauco, with Guillermo Enrique completing the back four. The midfield will comprise Fernando Gaibor, Erick Noriega, and Pablo Ceppelini, supporting the frontline led by Hernán Barcos, along with Eryc Castillo and Kevin Quevedo.
On the opposite side, Boca Juniors, under the guidance of coach Fernando Gago, will have to adapt their strategy due to significant player absences, including Edinson Cavani and Marcos Rojo, both sidelined by injury. Reports suggest, "Ayrton Costa no jugará la ida ante Alianza Lima," prompting Gago to possibly deploy Rodrigo Battaglia and Lautaro Di Lollo as the central defenders.
Despite these setbacks, Boca Juniors boasts talent like Agustín Marchesín in goal and attacking prowess from Miguel Merentiel and Alan Velasco, or Exequiel Zeballos. Their recent form shows promise, having solidified their defense with victories against Independiente Rivadavia and Banfield.
The fervor surrounding this match is palpable, with rival supporters set to bring their passion to the stands. Notably, the rivalry is spiced up as Alianza Lima recalls their historical 4-1 victory over Estudiantes La Plata back on the same date in 2010, hoping for another memorable night. The local fans are expected to come out in full force, contributing to the electric atmosphere.
Leading up to the match, social media buzz reflects the excitement and anxiety of both fanbases. Alianza Lima is determined to make good use of their local conditions, searching for a victory to take to the second leg, scheduled for February 25 at La Bombonera.
Both teams are aware of what's at stake—if Alianza Lima manages to secure a win, it will not only provide them with significant momentum heading to the Boca Juniors' home ground but might also create historical reference points for future encounters between these titans.
With both teams presenting unique challenges and strengths, tactical strategies will be pivotal. Alianza Lima will need to capitalize on every opportunity they have at home to lay down the groundwork for success. Conversely, Boca Juniors will aim to maintain their composure and tactical discipline amid absent players, focusing on counter-attacks and exploiting gaps left by the home team.
Tonight's game symbolizes more than just points on the line; it serves as a pivotal moment for Alianza Lima’s aspirations and Boca Juniors' legacy within the Copa Libertadores. A performance to be remembered could be on the cards, setting the stage for more enthralling football to come.