Santa Fe, Argentina – Boca Juniors and Unión de Santa Fe played to a 1-1 draw in a hard-fought contest on Saturday, March 15, 2026, at the Estadio 15 de Abril. The goal for Boca came courtesy of Uruguayan forward Miguel Merentiel, who leveled the score in the 57th minute.
The match, part of the 10th matchday of the 2026 Torneo Apertura, saw Unión take the lead, forcing Boca to fight for a point on the road. Merentiel’s goal, a result of a clever play involving Adam Bareiro, prevented Boca from suffering a defeat that could have further complicated their position in the league standings. Bareiro’s attempted bicycle kick initially struck the post, falling kindly for Merentiel to finish.
This goal marks the fourth of the Torneo Apertura for Merentiel, who has been a key attacking threat for Boca. He had previously found the net against Gimnasia de Mendoza and scored a brace against Lanús, demonstrating a consistent ability to find the back of the net. The forward’s contributions have been vital for a Boca side aiming to challenge for the league title.
The draw, however, wasn’t enough to propel Boca higher in the table. They remain in sixth place, eight points behind league leaders Vélez. The result underscores the competitive nature of the Torneo Apertura, where points are fiercely contested and consistency is paramount. For Boca, the need to convert promising positions into victories is becoming increasingly apparent.
Merentiel, who currently wears the number 16 shirt for Boca Juniors, has had a varied career, having played for several clubs in Argentina and abroad. His journey began with Peñarol in Uruguay, followed by loan spells at El Tanque Sisley and Lorca FC. He similarly spent time with Valencia B before establishing himself in Argentine football with Godoy Cruz and Defensa y Justicia. A stint with Palmeiras in Brazil preceded his return to Boca Juniors on loan, which has now become a permanent move.
Born in Paysandú, Uruguay, on February 24, 1996, Merentiel has also earned international recognition, representing the Uruguay national team. His versatility and goal-scoring ability have made him a valuable asset for both club and country. He made his debut for the Uruguayan national team in 2024 and has since become a regular feature in the squad.
The match against Unión was a physical encounter, with both teams battling for dominance in midfield. While Boca created several opportunities, Unión’s defense proved resilient, denying them a second goal. The home side also posed a threat on the counterattack, keeping Boca’s defense on high alert. The game was a tactical battle, with both managers attempting to exploit their opponents’ weaknesses.
Looking ahead, Boca Juniors will need to regroup and focus on their upcoming fixtures. The team will be aiming to secure maximum points in their next matches to close the gap on Vélez and strengthen their position in the league table. Merentiel’s continued form will be crucial to their success, as will the contributions of other key players in the squad. The team’s next challenge will test their resolve and their ability to perform under pressure.
The Torneo Apertura is known for its intensity and unpredictable results. With several rounds of matches still to be played, the title race remains wide open. Boca Juniors will be determined to mount a strong challenge and compete for the championship, but they will need to improve their consistency and capitalize on their opportunities. The league is known for its passionate fan base and competitive spirit, making it one of the most exciting football leagues in South America.
Boca Juniors will be looking to build on this draw and gain momentum as the season progresses. The team’s supporters will be hoping to spot more goals from Merentiel and a strong performance from the entire squad. The club’s ambition is to win the Torneo Apertura and secure a place in the continental competitions. The upcoming matches will be crucial in determining their fate.
Next up for Boca Juniors is a home match against [Next Opponent – Not Confirmed]. Details regarding the date and time of the match will be announced shortly. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to the club’s official channels for the latest updates.
