Rosario Central vs Independiente
Thanks to a 91st-minute goal by Enzo Copetti, Rosario Central secured a very valuable win away to San Lorenzo last weekend, winning 1-0. The team remain top of Group B with 32 points, having of course already clinched a playoff spot after going seven games unbeaten in this competition (four wins and three draws). In fact, Central have won seven straight home games. Franco Ibarra is ready to return from suspension.
Independiente were unable to hide the impact of the rotation made by coach Julio Vaccari last Wednesday, as they were outplayed and fell 2-0 away to Atlético Tucumán, who had started the match in the relegation zone. That result ended their ten-match unbeaten run in the league (five wins and five draws) and left them second in Group B with 29 points, three behind Rosario Central. Independiente have won just one of their last six away matches in this competition (three draws and two losses). Gabriel Ávalos and Pablo Galdames remain sidelined through injury.
Last game before the playoffs and these two have already advanced a while ago but they are 1st and 2nd in Group B so the top place is at stakes. The only way Independiente can get it is with a win, but they know that’s a very difficult task and considering they have a must in game in Copa Sudamericana next Tuesday and then the Round of 16 of this competition next wekeend, their coach will field a mixed lineup to rest some key players. Rosario Central has been incredibly strong at home and should be able to take the win here.