What happened in the friendly?

Boca Juniors secured a 1‑0 victory over Athletico Paranaense on Thursday, July 9 2026, at the Estadio Padre Ernesto Martearena in Salta. The only goal arrived in the 37th minute, scored by Luis Flores, who pounced on a rebound inside the box. Referee Luis Lobo Medina oversaw a smooth match, and the score held until the final whistle at 02:00 hrs.

How did Arruabarrena line up Boca?

Coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena deployed a classic 4‑4‑2: L. Brey, L. Blanco, A. Costa and N. Figal anchored the back line; L. Lozano, T. Belmonte, M. Delgado and A. Velasco filled midfield; while S. Ascacíbar and M. Merentiel partnered up front with L. Flores, the match‑winner. The setup displayed defensive balance and a high press that kept the Brazilian side at bay.

Why does this win matter for Boca?

Even as a friendly, the result boosts the squad’s morale ahead of the upcoming Liga Profesional phase. The clean sheet highlights a defensive solidity that suggests Arruabarrena’s unit is ready for championship challenges. Moreover, Flores’s goal gives the striker a confidence lift before the official season kickoff.

What’s next for both clubs?

Boca Juniors will return to Buenos Aires for training and gear up for its first official fixture on July 20 against River Plate in the Supercopa. Meanwhile, Athletico Paranaense heads back to Brazil to fine‑tune its tactics under Odair Hellmann, who trialed a 3‑4‑2‑1 formation in the friendly. Both sides aim to iron out the details shown in Salta before their domestic campaigns begin.