Analysis The numbers behind the result
Boca Juniors edge tight contest with clinical finishing
Boca Juniors deserved their narrow 1-0 win over Estudiantes L.P., as their superior ball control and chance creation translated into a higher xG (0.77 vs 0.37). Despite Estudiantes registering more shots on target (4 vs 2), Boca's 62% possession and 12 total shots highlighted their dominance, with Santiago Ascacibar's 45+1 minute strike proving decisive. Estudiantes' 38% possession and just 2 corners showed their limited attacking influence.
Tactically, Boca's 4-1-4-1 formation allowed them to control midfield, reflected in their 597 total passes (87% accuracy). Estudiantes' 4-2-3-1 setup struggled to retain possession, with only 367 total passes (80% accuracy). Ascacibar's goal, assisted by Lautaro Blanco, came from one of Boca's 7 shots inside the box, showcasing their effectiveness in dangerous areas.
The key stat explaining the outcome was Boca's ability to convert their higher xG into a goal, while Estudiantes failed to capitalize on their limited chances despite forcing 4 saves from Álvaro Montero.