Boca Juniors reaffirmed their dominance in Argentine football with a commanding 3-0 victory over Tigre in the final of the 2023 Copa de la Liga. The win not only secured them the prestigious title but also underscored their strength in domestic competition. In a match that showcased both tactical brilliance and individual flair, the team’s performance in this final was a clear statement to their rivals that Boca Juniors remain one of the most powerful forces in Argentine football.
The victory marked a significant achievement for Boca Juniors under head coach Hugo Ibarra, whose strategic setup and ability to motivate his players have brought them back to the top of the Argentine football scene. Tigre, on the other hand, despite a valiant effort, were left to rue missed chances and a performance that failed to match Boca’s intensity and clinical edge.
A Dominant First Half: Boca Sets the Tone Early
From the opening whistle, it was clear that Boca Juniors had every intention of making this final a one-sided affair. Their high-pressing style and swift counter-attacks overwhelmed Tigre early on, forcing the team from the northern suburbs of Buenos Aires to chase the game from the outset.
Boca’s first goal came in the 19th minute, when Darío Benedetto’s poacher instincts were on full display. The striker found himself in the right place at the right time to finish off a rebound from Tigre’s goalkeeper, Gonzalo Marinelli. The goal was a perfect example of Benedetto’s ability to be in the right position at crucial moments, a quality that has made him one of Boca’s most dependable finishers.
With their early lead, Boca seemed to gain confidence as they continued to control possession. The midfield, led by the influential Exequiel Zeballos and the experienced Sebastián Villa, dictated the tempo of the game, while the defensive line, marshalled by the veteran Carlos Izquierdoz, kept Tigre’s offensive players at bay.
Tigre, despite being on the back foot, had their moments. Striker Mateo Retegui, who has been one of the standout players of the tournament, found space in the Boca box several times. However, his shots were either blocked by Boca’s solid defense or saved by goalkeeper Sergio Romero, who was in impeccable form. Tigre’s inability to capitalize on these rare opportunities proved costly.
A Second Goal to Seal the Deal: Villa’s Magic
As the match progressed into the second half, Boca Juniors seemed to settle into a more comfortable rhythm. Tigre, now trailing by one, had no choice but to push forward in search of an equalizer. However, this left them vulnerable to the counter-attack, and it was during one of these rapid transitions that Boca extended their lead in the 56th minute.
Sebastián Villa, one of Boca’s most electrifying players, played a pivotal role in the move. The Colombian winger received a beautifully timed pass from Benedetto just outside Tigre’s penalty box and, with his trademark speed and skill, surged past his marker. Villa’s quick feet and close control left Tigre defenders in his wake as he slotted the ball past Marinelli to give Boca a commanding 2-0 lead.
Villa’s goal not only put the game beyond Tigre’s reach but also showcased his individual brilliance. His ability to run at defenders with pace and precision has made him one of the most dangerous players in Argentine football, and his performance in the final was a reminder of his value to the team.
The Final Nail in the Coffin: Benedetto Completes the Scoring
With Tigre now firmly on the back foot, Boca Juniors put the final nail in the coffin with their third goal in the 74th minute. Once again, it was Darío Benedetto who made the difference. The striker demonstrated his clinical finishing as he latched onto a perfectly weighted cross from Villa. Benedetto’s header was expertly placed into the corner of the net, out of Marinelli’s reach, securing his second goal of the match and cementing Boca’s 3-0 lead.
Tigre, now demoralized, struggled to mount any meaningful attacks in the final 15 minutes. Boca, in contrast, seemed content to control possession, not giving their opponents any chance to get back into the game. The final whistle confirmed what had been clear for much of the second half: Boca Juniors were the superior side on the day, and the title was theirs.
Boca’s Tactical Masterclass
Boca Juniors’ triumph in the Copa de la Liga final was a result of both individual brilliance and tactical discipline. Head coach Hugo Ibarra set his team up in a formation that allowed them to dominate possession while also being quick and lethal on the counter-attack. Tigre, who had been solid throughout the tournament, struggled to deal with Boca’s speed and precision.
The midfield battle was another key area where Boca exerted control. Zeballos and Villa were constantly on the ball, dictating the tempo and picking out key passes. Tigre’s midfield, meanwhile, was overrun by the constant movement and technical ability of Boca’s players.
Defensively, Boca was almost faultless. The central pairing of Izquierdoz and Marcos Rojo was rock-solid, and the full-backs, Frank Fabra and Luis Advíncula, were both quick to get forward and provide support for the attack. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Sergio Romero was a calm and composed presence, making crucial saves when needed and ensuring that Tigre had no chance of making a comeback.
Tigre’s Valient Effort, But Falling Short
Despite the final scoreline, Tigre should be commended for their efforts throughout the competition. The team, coached by Diego Martínez, has had a remarkable run to reach the final and should be proud of their achievements. They may have been outclassed in the final, but their campaign in the Copa de la Liga has been full of positives.
Mateo Retegui, Tigre’s star forward, was one of the standout players of the tournament. Although he was kept quiet by Boca’s defense in the final, Retegui’s goalscoring form throughout the competition was exceptional, and he will likely continue to be one of the most sought-after talents in Argentine football.
Tigre’s defense, however, was exposed by Boca’s high pressing and quick transitions. Marinelli made several crucial saves to keep the scoreline respectable, but ultimately, Tigre’s lack of cutting edge in the final third, combined with Boca’s clinical finishing, proved to be the difference.
Boca Juniors: A Glorious New Chapter
For Boca Juniors, the win represents another title in their storied history and adds another chapter to their legacy of success in Argentine football. The club’s passionate fanbase, known as “La 12,” celebrated the victory as the team cemented their place as one of the giants of South American football. This title is not just a trophy for Boca—it is a statement of their resilience, their ability to bounce back from difficult seasons, and their commitment to winning at the highest level.
With this win, Boca Juniors add to their impressive collection of domestic titles, continuing to build on the legacy established by legendary figures such as Diego Maradona, Carlos Tévez, and Juan Román Riquelme. The club’s ability to consistently challenge for titles, both domestically and internationally, remains unmatched in Argentina.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Clubs?
For Boca, the victory in the Copa de la Liga provides a strong foundation for the rest of the season. With the Argentine Primera División title still within reach and the Copa Libertadores on the horizon, this win could serve as a springboard for more success. Coach Ibarra will be keen to keep his players grounded, as Boca’s focus now shifts to continuing their winning run in domestic and international competitions.
For Tigre, despite the loss, the Copa de la Liga final is a testament to the progress the club has made under Diego Martínez. The team will look to build on their strong tournament showing, with an eye on improving their league position and challenging for more titles in the future.
As for the future of Argentine football, Boca Juniors’ dominant performance in the final underscores the continuing importance of the country’s big clubs in the South American footballing landscape. The rivalry between Boca Juniors and other top-tier teams like River Plate, Independiente, and Racing Club will continue to captivate fans and create thrilling storylines for seasons to come.
In the end, Boca Juniors’ 3-0 victory over Tigre was not just a title win; it was a reminder of the club’s enduring greatness, and a glimpse into what promises to be another exciting chapter in Argentine football.