Boca Juniors faces Gimnasia y Esgrima de Chivilcoy this Tuesday in the Round of 16 of the 2026 Copa Argentina, a match that comes at a crucial juncture for the Buenos Aires club. The encounter, scheduled for 9:15 PM local time at the Estadio Padre Ernesto Martearena in Salta, presents an opportunity for Boca to regain momentum after a series of underwhelming results in the Torneo Apertura. The team will also see the debut of new signing Adam Bareiro.
The Copa Argentina has long been a significant competition in Argentine football, offering a direct route to continental tournaments like the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Sudamericana. For Boca, a club with a rich history and high expectations, success in this tournament is paramount, especially as they navigate a challenging period domestically. The match against Gimnasia de Chivilcoy, a team representing the Federal A division, is seen as a necessary stepping stone towards a deeper run in the competition. The Estadio Padre Ernesto Martearena, with a capacity of approximately 16,000, is expected to be filled with supporters eager to see Boca advance.
Boca’s Recent Form and the Pressure on Claudio Úbeda
Boca’s current form has been a source of concern for fans and club officials alike. As of February 24, 2026, the team sits in 7th position in their Apertura group, falling short of qualification spots after six matches played. Recent draws against Platense and Racing have amplified the pressure on head coach Claudio Úbeda. The team’s inability to secure consistent victories has raised questions about the team’s tactical approach and overall performance. The Copa Argentina match provides a chance for Úbeda to address these concerns and demonstrate his ability to lead Boca to success.
The situation is particularly delicate given the high expectations surrounding Boca Juniors. The club is consistently under scrutiny, and any prolonged period of poor results can lead to significant upheaval. Úbeda, who took the helm earlier in the year, is acutely aware of the need to deliver positive results to maintain his position. The match against Gimnasia de Chivilcoy is therefore not merely a cup tie; it’s a test of Úbeda’s leadership and a potential turning point in his tenure.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Claudio Úbeda is expected to field a largely rotated squad for the match against Gimnasia de Chivilcoy, prioritizing player rotation and providing opportunities for squad members to showcase their abilities. This decision is likely influenced by the congested fixture list and the desire to keep key players fresh for upcoming league matches. One of the most notable aspects of the team selection will be the debut of Paraguayan forward Adam Bareiro, who recently joined the club. Bareiro’s arrival is seen as a significant boost to Boca’s attacking options, and his debut will be closely watched by fans and analysts.
Though, Boca will be without Leandro Paredes, who continues his recovery from an ankle injury. This absence is a blow to the team’s midfield, as Paredes is a key player known for his passing range and defensive contributions. The expected formation is a 4-4-2, a departure from the more familiar 4-3-3 system, suggesting a more pragmatic approach to the match. Although the exact lineup remains unconfirmed, it is anticipated that several reserve players will feature, alongside Bareiro making his first appearance for the club.
Confirmed Boca Juniors Starting Lineup (as of 24 February 2026, 16:00 ART)
- Goalkeeper: (To be confirmed)
- Defenders: (To be confirmed)
- Midfielders: (To be confirmed)
- Forwards: Adam Bareiro, (To be confirmed)
Gimnasia de Chivilcoy: The Opponent
Gimnasia y Esgrima de Chivilcoy represents a significant challenge for Boca, despite the disparity in league standings. As a team competing in the Federal A, Argentina’s regionalized third tier, Gimnasia will be eager to cause an upset and craft a name for themselves on the national stage. The Copa Argentina provides an opportunity for teams from lower divisions to test themselves against the country’s elite clubs, and Gimnasia will undoubtedly approach the match with determination and ambition.
While information regarding Gimnasia de Chivilcoy’s recent form is limited, it is expected that they will rely on a strong defensive structure and quick counter-attacks. Their players will be motivated to perform at their best against a prestigious opponent like Boca Juniors, and they will likely adopt a physical and combative approach to the match. Boca will need to be prepared for a tough contest and avoid complacency if they are to secure a comfortable victory.
Where to Watch Boca vs. Gimnasia de Chivilcoy Live
Football fans in Argentina and around the world will be able to watch the Copa Argentina Round of 16 clash between Boca Juniors and Gimnasia y Esgrima de Chivilcoy live on TyC Sports. The broadcast is scheduled to begin at 9:15 PM local time (ART) from the Estadio Padre Ernesto Martearena in Salta. TyC Sports is available on most major cable and satellite providers in Argentina, as well as through its streaming service, TyC Sports Play. International viewers may be able to access the broadcast through various sports streaming platforms, depending on their location and subscription status.
The match is also expected to generate significant social media buzz, with fans sharing their thoughts and reactions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. Live updates and highlights will likely be available on sports news websites and mobile apps throughout the evening. For those unable to watch the match live, replays and extended highlights will be available on TyC Sports and other sports channels in the days following the contest.
The referee for the match will be Facundo Tello.
Looking Ahead
Regardless of the outcome, the Copa Argentina match against Gimnasia de Chivilcoy represents an important opportunity for Boca Juniors to build momentum and address the concerns surrounding their recent form. A victory would provide a much-needed boost to morale and confidence, while a defeat could further intensify the pressure on Claudio Úbeda and his players. The next confirmed fixture for Boca Juniors is a league match against (opponent to be confirmed) on March 3, 2026, at La Bombonera.
What are your predictions for the match? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow football fans!