Platense vs Independiente
Platense suffered a tough loss last Thursday when they failed to hold onto their lead and ended up falling 2-1 to San Lorenzo away from home, conceding two penalties. This was their second defeat in their last three league matches (alongside one victory), but El Calamar remains within the playoff zone in Group B, with seven points in five rounds of the Torneo Apertura. Additionally, Platense are unbeaten in their last nine home matches, with six wins and three draws. All regular starters are available to face Independiente on Monday.
Independiente put on a football masterclass last Wednesday, securing an easy 3-0 home victory over Velez Sarsfield, which allowed them to reclaim the top spot in Group B alone. With four wins and just one loss so far in the Torneo Apertura, El Rojo accumulated 12 points, holding a one-point lead over Rosario Central. Including last season, Julio Vaccari’s team won six of their last eight league matches, drawing one and losing one. Away from home, Independiente defeated Talleres 3-2 and lost 2-0 to River Plate so far.
As good as Independiente has been so far this season, an away game at Platense should be tough for them. The hosts play a very closed defense, and a draw won’t be a bad result for either of them.