Belgrano vs Rosario Central
Belgrano experienced the greatest moment in the club’s history last May, when they came from behind to defeat River Plate 3-2 thanks to two goals from Nicolás Fernández in the final five minutes, lifting the Torneo Apertura trophy for their first-ever league title in 121 years. El Pirata finished a historic campaign unbeaten in their final five league matches (four wins and one draw in regular time), while also winning three and losing one of their last four home games. They followed up that achievement by reaching the Round of 16 of the Copa Argentina, edging Gimnasia Jujuy on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Already qualified for the 2027 Copa Libertadores—which will mark the club’s first-ever appearance—Belgrano enter the Clausura with little pressure. There have been no major moves during the transfer window. Rosario Central wrapped up a respectable Torneo Apertura campaign with a 1-0 defeat to River Plate on the road in the semifinals, a result that also snapped a five-match unbeaten run in league play (four wins and one draw). They will now turn their attention to securing a place in next year’s continental competitions. After that, El Canalla completed their Copa Libertadores Group H campaign by advancing to the Round of 16 as runners-up, before suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to Estudiantes in the Round of 32 of the Copa Argentina. In league play, Central have won just one of their last five matches on the road, drawing one and losing three. Looking ahead to the Clausura, the club have lost Alejo Véliz (transferred to EC Bahia) and Enzo Giménez (to Querétaro FC). Franco Cervi (from RC Celta de Vigo) and Tomás Badaloni (Club Necaxa) have been the club’s most notable signings. Central have played three preseason friendlies, winning two and losing one. The defending champions meet the always dangerous Rosario Central and I expect an entertaining game so this very low line deserves a bet on the OVER.