Godoy Cruz vs Platense
Godoy Cruz gave the best possible farewell to their coach Ernesto Pedernera, whose final match in charge was a 2-0 away victory over defending champions Velez Sarsfield last Monday. With this result, the team secured their first win of 2025 after two draws and two losses, reaching five points in Group B of the Torneo Apertura (with one game in hand). On the downside, Godoy Cruz has won just one of their last six home matches (drawing three and losing two). Esteban Solari will make his debut as head coach this Friday. He will have Santino Andino available, as the youngster returns from his participation in the South American U-20 Championship.
Platense salvaged a valuable point last Monday, drawing 1-1 at home against Independiente thanks to an own goal in the 89th minute. Despite winning just one of their last four league matches (along with a draw and two losses), El Calamar remains in the Group B playoff zone with eight points. However, they have struggled on the road lately, winning only one of their last seven away games, drawing two, and losing four. Left-back Jonathan Bay suffered a ligament tear last Monday and will be sidelined for several months.
Godoy Cruz was punished with a 3 points deduction and 6 games played behind closed doors because of the suspended game against Talleres a week ago, but the good news is that they will finally have young star Santino Andino. Platense has been solid but they conceded goals in the last 2 games, so I like this very short totals line now that Godoy Cruz finally was able to score goals.