From Ubeda's ratification to a footballing and emotional collapse: The reasons behind another international failure for Boca

Boca Juniors' elimination from the Copa Libertadores group stage signifies another significant international setback for the club, stemming from a cascade of misjudgments and strategic errors rather than a single event. The disappointment is not just a result of the final match but a culmination of poor decisions, unresolved games, and an unfulfilled vision for the team's playing style throughout the season.

The consequences extend beyond the sporting realm, impacting the club's prestige and the political standing of its president, Juan Román Riquelme. The team was described as competitive but unbalanced, lacking reliable options in key positions like right-back and featuring an overabundance of players who have been with the club for years with little impact. This situation has led to growing questions about Riquelme's management, which has not secured any titles in over three and a half years since his assumption of the presidency.

Further complicating matters, Boca announced the dissolution of its Football Council in August 2025, a body responsible for player relations, technical staff, and recruitment. Two key members, Raúl Cascini and Mauricio Serna, also departed. The Council had previously faced scrutiny for errors, such as a late submission of the roster for the Copa Sudamericana, which prevented new signings from being used in the knockout stages. Despite these issues, Serna has reportedly continued to be involved in significant decisions, including contract negotiations.

Riquelme has consolidated power, making decisions with a close inner circle in a highly vertical structure. Board meetings are infrequent and often serve to ratify pre-made decisions, particularly those related to football operations. This approach has eroded some of the idolatry Riquelme once commanded, shaking the foundations of his legacy due to unfulfilled promises and perceived leadership failures.