Clemente Montes' golazo for Universidad Católica silenced La Bombonera

Universidad Católica's Clemente Montes scored a spectacular goal at Boca Juniors' iconic La Bombonera stadium, stunning the home crowd and securing a crucial advantage. The goal originated from a Boca Juniors free kick, but Universidad Católica quickly transitioned to a counter-attack. Cristian Cuevas initiated the play, finding Fernando Zuqui, who then passed to Eugenio Mena. Mena's pass found Montes, who, instead of setting up striker Fernando Zampedri, unleashed a curling shot that struck the post and found the back of the net, leaving Boca's goalkeeper Leandro Brey helpless.

The goal, which came against the run of play, was a testament to Universidad Católica's tactical execution and Montes' individual brilliance. The Chilean players celebrated the goal directly in front of the Boca Juniors supporters, leading to a yellow card for Cuevas, who was instrumental in the build-up with a subtle left-footed touch that beat his marker. Mena's pass and Montes' finish completed the decisive sequence.

Boca Juniors' coach Claudio Ubeda reviewed the play on his tablet, identifying poor defensive positioning as the cause of the goal. Mena had multiple passing options, including Cuevas and Montes, highlighting the space Boca's defense left open. Conceding this goal meant Boca needed to score two goals to advance, a task they ultimately failed to achieve.

The 2-1 victory for Universidad Católica at La Bombonera propelled them to the top of their group. In the other group match, Cruzeiro defeated Barcelona 4-0, also advancing to the round of 16. Boca Juniors, facing a disappointing exit from the Copa Libertadores, will now compete in the Copa Sudamericana.