Banfield vs Union
Banfield took a step back from their recent good run last Friday, as they failed to find answers and fell 3-0 away to Argentinos Juniors. El Taladro saw their two-match league winning streak snapped but remain in the playoff spots in Group A with 13 points. Their campaign also leaves them nine points clear of the relegation zone in the aggregate table, which had been a threat throughout the year. Banfield have won their last two home matches (3-2 vs. Estudiantes and 1-0 vs. Tigre).
Unión Santa Fe let a good opportunity slip away last Saturday, drawing 2-2 at home against Independiente Rivadavia. However, they remain in strong form: El Tatengue are unbeaten in their last five league matches (three wins and two draws) and continue as Group A leaders with 16 points, now far removed from the relegation threat that loomed at the start of the Torneo Clausura. On top of that, Unión have won their last three away matches. All regular starters are available for Leonardo Madelón on Friday.
Union are one of the big surprises so far this season, leading Group A and with the 2nd best attack in the league with 15 goals in 9 games, including at least 2 in each of their last 3 games. Their rival today, Banfield, has the worst defense with 13 goals conceded in 9 rounds but they’ve scored at least once in 3 out 4 home games in this tournament, so two goals look definitely possible here.