31/07/2026 04:55 - Deportes
The historic club from Avellaneda, a city just outside Buenos Aires, defeated Newells Old Boys 1-0 in the second round of the 2026 Clausura Tournament. Securing their second consecutive win, they consolidate their position as one of the teams to beat in the championship. A perfect night for the fans of El Rojo (The Red).
The match, played on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 9:15 PM at the Libertadores de America-Ricardo Enrique Bochini stadium, found its key moment at the 41st minute of the first half. Santiago Montiel, with a powerful right-footed shot into the roof of the net after an incomplete cross from Maximiliano Gutierrez, sparked local euphoria and set the final 1-0 score.
Managed by Gustavo Quinteros, Independiente came in highly motivated after defeating Estudiantes 2-0 in La Plata during the opening round. On the other hand, La Lepra (The Lepers, as Newells is traditionally known), a major club from the city of Rosario managed by Frank Dario Kudelka, arrived after a 1-0 victory against Talleres. However, they faced a solid rival that dominated possession and territory for much of the game, halting the Rosario team momentum.
Goalkeeper Rodrigo Rey was crucial in preventing a clear goal by Juan Ignacio Ramirez in the first half with a great intervention. In the opposing goal, Josue Reinatti also responded well when tested. Additionally, there were penalty claims from Independiente for an alleged handball by Walter Mazzantti, which the referee did not penalize. In the second half, the home team suffered injury scares for Maximiliano Gutierrez (ankle) and Sebastian Valdez, who had to be replaced by Kevin Lomonaco.
| Competition | 2026 Clausura Tournament - Round 2 (Zone A) |
| Event Date | Thursday, July 30, 2026 |
| Stadium | Libertadores de America-Ricardo Enrique Bochini (Avellaneda) |
| Goal Scorer | Santiago Montiel (41 min 1st Half) |
| Referee | Pablo Echavarria (VAR: Lucas Novelli) |
Sources: TyC Sports | AFA Official
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