Riquelme's desperate plea after the elimination from the Copa Argentina

After the embarrassing performance in Copa Argentina, Boca is now more obligated than ever to win the Torneo Clausura if it wants to turn around its current sporting situation and aim to return to the Copa Libertadores after two years of absence.

However, Miguel Ángel Russo's team is going through a very complicated moment that still keeps that hope distant:  it plays poorly, doesn't achieve results, and is starting to feel the rejection of its fans.

In this context, and as journalist Emiliano Raddi revealed on Planeta Boca Juniors, after the defeat in Santiago del Estero, Juan Román Riquelme went to the locker room before the squad boarded the bus and spoke directly to the players.

With a firm and direct tone, the president delivered a clear message: "Lower your heads and get through this. Swallow your pride. The only way we move forward is by winning," Román said in a shaken locker room.

The first challenge to overcome will be this Sunday against Huracán at La Bombonera, for the third round of the championship. Two weeks later, Xeneize will visit Avellaneda for the clásico with Racing.

Day off after defeat

Despite the anger over the elimination, Russo decided to give the squad Thursday off. Training will resume on Friday, with only two days of preparation for the home match against Globo.

In that match, several changes in the line-up are expected, since in the last game the coach chose some players who hadn't been starters and the team's overall performance once again left much to be desired. The obligation is clear: Boca needs to win to calm the waters.