BEIJING (China) - Francisco Caffaro delivered a standout performance as Boca Juniors defeated the Beijing Royal Fighters 88-78 on the opening day of the FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2026. Caffaro, the team captain and a key player for the Basketball Champions League Americas winners, recorded a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds in just 23 minutes, shooting 5-of-7 from the field and 7-of-8 from the free throw line.
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His performance came in the presence of Argentine basketball legend Luis Scola, who is attending the event as an ambassador. Caffaro expressed his admiration for Scola, stating, "Luis Scola means everything. They're the Golden Generation... he was one of the main pieces, and obviously the Generación Dorada means everything to Argentinian basketball."
While acknowledging that few can match Scola’s level, Caffaro recognized the influence Scola has had on his game. "The career that he had, both in the NBA and Europe, makes him one of the greatest FIBA players ever... I looked up to him when I first started playing basketball," he said.
Caffaro, born in 2000, played alongside Scola at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where Scola concluded his professional playing career. He keeps a framed photo of Scola's last moment on the court at home, which adds to his motivation as he competes in the tournament.
"We came here to win," Caffaro said confidently, despite acknowledging that other teams might appear stronger on paper. He emphasized the team's belief in their capabilities, stating, "We know what we have. We know it's enough, and we know we're gonna fight."
With their first win secured, Boca Juniors now has a day off and could advance to the semifinals on Wednesday if the NBA G League United defeats the Royal Fighters. Otherwise, Boca Juniors will look to secure their spot on Thursday against the G Leaguers.