Belgrano vs Defensa y Justicia
Coach Ricardo Zielinski had a devastating debut in his return to Belgrano last weekend, as the team were completely outplayed and suffered a crushing 4-0 defeat away to CA Central Córdoba. With this loss, El Pirata remain on just five points after six rounds in the Torneo Apertura (one win, two draws, and three defeats). On a positive note, Belgrano ended a four-match winless streak at home (two draws and two losses) by beating Aldosivi 2-0 in their last home game. Right-back Gabriel Compagnucci is suspended for Sunday after receiving a red card in the last match. Franco Jara succumbed to an Achilles problem and will miss out.
Defensa y Justicia missed a huge opportunity to climb into third spot of the Group A table last weekend, as they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Barracas Central after conceding a goal in the ninth minute of stoppage time. However, El Halcón are in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their last five league matches (three wins and two draws) and sitting comfortably within the playoff zone with 11 points. Additionally, Defensa have not lost in their last seven away matches, recording four wins and three draws.
Belgrano can’t improve despite changing coach recently. Last week they were completely outplayed by Central Cordoba, and not having their top scorer Franco Jara are not good news for them so I’ll trust Defensa here to at least avoid a defeat.