Edinson Cavani remains a key figure for Boca Juniors, but his participation in the upcoming Copa Libertadores debut is in doubt due to a lumbar injury. The Uruguayan striker, who also missed the last league match against Independiente Rivadavia, has raised alarms at the club after a diagnosis confirmed he will be sidelined for an indefinite period. Boca issued a medical report detailing that Cavani suffered a post-traumatic bone edema and a fracture in the transverse process of the L3 vertebra, without displacement.

This injury originated from an unfortunate movement during the match against Huracán, leading to a reduced ability to play in subsequent matches. Despite his desire to be involved in every game, the coaching staff decided not to risk his health and left him out of the match against Independiente Rivadavia, even though he was initially scheduled to start.

Given the situation, Cavani will miss the match against Banfield this Friday and the trip to Peru on February 18th, for Boca's Copa Libertadores debut against Alianza Lima. According to the medical report, the focus will be on pain management and rehabilitation, with his recovery determining whether he will be ready for the return leg on February 25th at La Bombonera.

In addition to Cavani's absence, Boca faces a complicated situation with multiple players recovering from injuries, including Sergio Romero, Marcos Rojo, Nicolás Figal, Lucas Blondel, Ander Herrera, and Tomás Belmonte. These issues could further affect Fernando Gago's tactical decisions for the start of the Copa.

Despite these challenges, the team has some good news. Kevin Zenón returns after serving a one-match suspension, and Carlos Palacios has recovered from a gastroenteritis and dehydration, allowing Xeneize to have some alternatives for the upcoming matches with hopes of getting Cavani back in time for the continental debut.