São Paulo Falls 1-0 to Boca Juniors in Copa Sul-Americana Quarter-Final First Leg

On September 8, 2026, São Paulo suffered a 1-0 defeat against Boca Juniors at La Bombonera in the first leg of the Copa Sul-Americana quarter-finals. The sole goal came early in the second half when Boca's Miguel Merentiel capitalized on a rebound after his initial shot was saved by São Paulo goalkeeper Rafael. Despite several promising chances in the first half from São Paulo players Luciano and Calleri, the Brazilian side failed to score.

The match showcased São Paulo's ongoing struggles this season. After a bright start, the team lost intensity post-halftime, allowing Boca Juniors to dominate. Complicating matters for São Paulo, striker Calleri received his third yellow card and will be suspended for the return leg.

Head coach Dorival Júnior expressed disappointment yet optimism, acknowledging Boca's strong performance and highlighting his team's progress throughout the season. He remarked, "We are on the right path. The team has been evolving, improving, and showing important consistency. I hope this growth continues."

São Paulo now faces a challenging task in the second leg at Morumbi Stadium on October 15. To advance directly to the semifinals, they must win by two or more goals; otherwise, a penalty shootout looms if the aggregate score is tied. Before this decisive match, São Paulo will also contest a high-stakes league fixture against Palmeiras on October 12.

Additionally, in the quarter-finals, Vasco da Gama drew 0-0 with Colombia's Santa Fe, setting up a tense second leg in Rio de Janeiro with no advantage to either side.

The first leg loss places São Paulo in a precarious position but with a fighting chance to overturn the deficit at home in the upcoming return match.