Estudiantes de La Plata clinched a spot in the final of the Copa de la Liga de Argentina by defeating Boca Juniors 3-1 in a tense penalty shootout. The match, held on Tuesday at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Córdoba, ended 1-1 in regulation time. Goalkeeper Matías Mansilla was the standout performer, saving crucial penalties that secured the win. Now, Estudiantes will face Vélez Sarsfield in the final on Sunday in Santiago del Estero, aiming to claim their 16th title.
Mansilla Shines as Estudiantes Seize the Moment
Boca Juniors dominated the first half, with Miguel Merentiel scoring in the 40th minute. Boca created multiple chances, but Estudiantes, known for their resilience and tactical discipline, stayed in the game. Mansilla made several vital saves, including one from a Kevin Zenón free kick and another from a close-range Merentiel shot.
Estudiantes de La Plata, one of Argentina’s oldest and most successful football clubs, boasts a rich history with four Copa Libertadores titles, their last in 2009. The club, often called “El Pincha,” has a reputation for producing tough, competitive teams. This latest Copa de la Liga run showcases their enduring spirit.
In the second half, Estudiantes improved after coach Eduardo Domínguez made key substitutions. Edwin Cetré, recovering from a minor injury, made an immediate impact. In the 75th minute, he converted a penalty after Boca’s Cristian Lema was sent off for a dangerous foul in the box. With the score tied and Boca down to ten men, Estudiantes took control but couldn’t find a winner in regular time.
Estudiantes’ Tactical Brilliance Prevails
In the penalty shootout, Mansilla continued his heroics, saving shots from Edinson Cavani and Jorge Figal. Estudiantes calmly converted their penalties, with Eros Mancuso, Guido Carrillo, and Mauro Méndez all scoring. Boca’s hopes of replicating their Libertadores penalty shootout success were crushed, as only Zenón managed to score. Lema missed his attempt, sealing Boca’s fate.
With this victory, Estudiantes advanced to the final against Vélez Sarsfield. The match will take place at the modern Estadio Madre de Ciudades in Santiago del Estero. Estudiantes now have a chance to secure their place in the 2025 Copa Libertadores and add another chapter to their illustrious history.
