São Paulo beaten by Boca Juniors, semi hopes fade in Sul-Americana

At a packed La Bombonera, São Paulo lost 1-0 to Boca Juniors this Tuesday (8) in the first leg of the 2026 Conmebol Sudamericana quarterfinals.

Highlights coming shortly

Tricolor Paulista had a solid first half and even created a good chance, with Luciano’s header, but the goalkeeper made the save.

However, after the break, São Paulo’s game collapsed under the Argentine pressure.

Before 10 minutes had been played in the second half, Merentiel pounced on a rebound from the defense right in front of Rafael and opened the scoring for Boca Juniors.

Boca had two great chances to extend the lead, but Rafael made a big save from a header, and Velasco’s long-range rocket shaved the post. 

🧐 Refereeing controversy

At the end of the match, the referee showed a red card to Domingos Duarte after a heavy challenge with Paredes.

However, after a VAR review, the referee rescinded the red card for the São Paulo center-back, but did not show any card to the Argentine player, causing outrage among São Paulo’s players.

🚦 How things stand

With the defeat at La Bombonera, São Paulo now need to win by two goals at MorumBIS next Tuesday (15) to advance to the Sudamericana semifinals.

If Tricolor win by one goal, the place will be decided on penalties.

Boca Juniors only need a draw to qualify for the next round.

São Paulo return to action next Saturday (12), when they visit Palmeiras at Nubank Parque for Round 27 of the Brasileirão.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.