Pedro Troglio's History of Eliminating Boca Juniors in Copa Argentina
Banfield coach seeks to replicate his 2018 tactical upset against the Argentine giant.
1A Proven Tactical Giant-Killer
Pedro Troglio, currently managing Banfield, prepares for a high-stakes Copa Argentina clash against Boca Juniors. The coach carries the psychological advantage of having previously eliminated the Xeneize in 2018. This history serves as a significant narrative backdrop as he aims to secure a spot in the tournament's grand final match.
2The 2018 Córdoba Upset
In September 2018, Troglio led Gimnasia La Plata to a historic victory against Boca at the Mario Alberto Kempes stadium. Despite Gimnasia's administrative instability and poor league standing at the time, the team executed a disciplined defensive plan that neutralized the reigning two-time Argentine champions under manager Guillermo Barros Schelotto.
3Early Setbacks for Boca
The 2018 encounter saw Boca Juniors struggle early when striker Darío Benedetto was forced off the pitch after just 11 minutes due to a right femoral biceps strain. His replacement, Carlos Tevez, failed to spark the offense, as Gimnasia’s organized tactical structure effectively prevented Boca from creating meaningful chances against goalkeeper Alexis Martín Arias.
4The Decisive Substitution
Troglio’s tactical gamble occurred in the 65th minute when he introduced 17-year-old Venezuelan striker Jan Hurtado. With only 55 minutes of prior experience for the club, the teenager proved to be the match-winner. He outmaneuvered defender Lisandro Magallán to score the decisive goal just one minute before the final whistle blew.
5A Rare Tournament Feat
Following the victory over Boca, Troglio’s Gimnasia eliminated Central Córdoba and eventually defeated Marcelo Gallardo’s River Plate in the semifinals via penalty shootout. This made them the first team to eliminate both Boca and River in a single Copa Argentina edition, a rare achievement later matched by Patronato in the 2022 season.
6The Final Heartbreak
Despite the historic run, Troglio’s 2018 campaign ended in disappointment during the final against Rosario Central. After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, Gimnasia faltered in the penalty shootout, settling for the runner-up position. This memory remains a driving force for the coach as he seeks personal redemption in the current tournament.
7Parallels in Current Challenges
Banfield currently faces an irregular performance record and administrative pressures similar to the environment Troglio navigated at Gimnasia in 2018. These shared circumstances suggest that the coach is comfortable operating under organizational uncertainty. He relies on tactical discipline to bridge the gap between his squad's current form and the elite status of Boca.
8Looking Toward the Future
As Troglio prepares his current side, the football community recalls how Boca eventually signed Jan Hurtado, the very player who eliminated them in 2018. This upcoming match represents more than just a semifinal berth; it is a test of whether Troglio can once again outmaneuver a giant despite facing significant institutional headwinds.
Original article: Olé — Pedro Troglio's History of Eliminating Boca Juniors in Copa Argentina