Boca Juniors playmaker Juan Román Riquelme believes that his team must get a victory against Argentinos Juniors this coming Sunday if they are to mark their intentions as title challengers in the Clausura.

Boca drew their opening Clausura game against Rosario Central on Sunday and Riquelme knows that they cannot afford a similar result against Argentinos Juniors if they are to mount a challenge for the title.

"If we want to be champions, we need to win," he told Olé.

Sunday’s game will be Boca’s first at El Bombonera this season and Riquelme recognises that it is important to get a victory in front of their supporters.

"We have an obligation to play well at home, with the support of the fans. On Sunday I just want to give a triumph to the fans of Boca. Hopefully we can play well and give the fans a title before the end of the year."

Despite stating that a victory is vital for their title aspirations, Riquelme knows that Argentinos will not be easy opponents as he believes that the smaller sides generally raise their game when they play against the established giants of Argentine football.

"It is going to be very difficult for us… when one plays against Boca or River the other team is always desperate to win and play above their usual standard. This is logical because it would be the same for me.

“We have the same possibilities that all the teams have to take the title. The reality is that we began without winning and that this is going to be a very even match. We are going to have to put a lot of work into it."

Finally, Riquelme was asked who he felt their main challengers will be for the Clausura title.

“San Lorenzo is going to fight. When Andrés (D'Alessandro) gets in shape he will be a massive help to their team. River and Estudiantes - with Verón - will also be candidates," he concluded.

I love Roman - IMO wasted in Argentina

Is so much better than that level

no way, he makes that team, no way would he leave! Palacio and Palermo feed off him, he is at one of the biggest teams on the continent, i would rather be there than at Villareal!