In the world of Racing, there is an obsession with the Copa Libertadores. The Academy dreams of replicating their historic victory in 1967 when they triumphed over National of Montevideo in the finals. Under the guidance of Gustavo Costas, this experienced strategist utilizes all available resources to achieve another international conquest, having successfully won the historic South American Cup the previous year.
However, the Avellaneda club must focus on turning things around in the Closing Tournament. Since the domestic league’s kickoff, Costas’s squad has struggled, failing to win a single game at the Cylinder, marking their worst start since 1934.
Following a disheartening defeat to Argentinos Juniors, the team felt an immediate push to recalibrate. A pivotal meeting occurred among all players and coaching staff, who pledged to reverse their current form and approached the upcoming match against Union as if it were a final.
In anticipation of the game, Mauricio Martínez and Augusto Solari were recognized for their roles as champions with the Avellaneda side, adding a nostalgic touch as the crowd gathered before play commenced. An emotional moment was dedicated to Matías Tagliamonte, a former camping goalkeeper who returned to lend his support.
On the field, Leonardo Carol Madelón’s squad sought to assert themselves early on. Despite their recent elimination from the Argentine Cup, they exhibited confidence through a long-range strike from Franco Fragapane and a well-placed header from Caramelito Martínez, creating the clearest chances to take an early lead.
Racing supporters held their breath as Mauro Pitton executed a decisive counterattack, seemingly scoring; however, VAR intervened, ruling the goal offside.
This incident invigorated the home side, resulting in a breakthrough as Maravilla Martínez finally celebrated the highly-anticipated 1-0 lead, breaking the grim streak in the Clausura.
Formations
Referee: Nazarene Arasa
VAR: Álvaro Carranza
Greed: Joaquin Gil
Hour: 21:15
TV: ESPN Premium
Stadium: President Perón
0-1 Sports Workshops Riestra
Workshops faced Deportivo Riestra in a crucial match at Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium, which appeared set to deliver an entertaining spectacle despite both teams entering the Seventh date of the Clausura Tournament with opposing narratives.
With a favorable beginning, the Córdoba team quickly sought to take control, coming close to scoring early on. After a poorly executed clearance by Ignacio Arce, Valentín Depietri pounced on the opportunity, yet his weak attempt was easily thwarted by the opposing goalkeeper.
While Carlos Tevez’s squad struggled to dictate the game, the match evolved into a relentless contest of midfield dominance, with the home supporters expressing discontent towards their team’s performance.
Aside from Depietri’s chance, neither side could craft significant threats. Although Workshops managed to maintain some pressure, they could not penetrate the resolute Malevo defense.
In the second half, Federico Girotti thought he had ended the goal drought, but an unfortunate offside call canceled his effort. As the final fifteen minutes approached, a moment of brilliance from Jonatan Goitía hit the sweet spot, curling the ball past Guido Herrera into the back of the net—the first score in favor of Under Flowers.
While the team led by Gustavo Benítez retained hopes of qualifying for the South American Cup next year, questions loom over Tevez’s ability to alter the team’s struggling trajectory. Currently, they find themselves without a goal for 461 minutes and have not enjoyed a victory in five matches.
Formations
Referee: Bryan Ferreyra
VAR: Fernando Echenique
Greed: Javier Uziga
TV: ESPN Premium
Stadium: Mario Alberto Kempes
Defense and Justice 2-1 Belgrano
In Florencio Varela, Defense and Justice hosted Belgrano in another decisive encounter crucial for the contesting spots in the Closing. The Hawk came out strong but struggled to maintain momentum.
Dominating early play, Defense and Justice captured an early lead within the seventh minute thanks to Aaron Molinas, who artfully executed a corner that Rafael Delgado converted, demonstrating the Law of the Ex.
Despite their dominance, moments of inaccuracy haunted the Buenos Aires outfit. Belgrano capitalized on one of their rare opportunities, with Francisco González Metilli missing a clear chance that was kept out by Agustín Hausch.
However, as half-time approached, a handball from a local defender led the VAR to intervene, prompting referee Felipe Viola to award a penalty. Franco Jara stepped up and leveled the match at 1-1.
In the second half, the home side regained their advantage through a fine sequence of passing involving Juan Gutiérrez, Alexis Soto, and Juan Miritello. The incisive play dismantled Belgrano’s defense, enabling a critical strike past Thiago Cardozo.
Belgrano faced an agonizing moment when Franco Jara found himself one-on-one with Enrique Bologna, but the keeper’s outstanding performance ensured the ball hit the post, sealing the victory for the home side despite their overall lesser showing.