Racing Club clinched a narrow victory over San Martín (SJ) during their Copa Argentina encounter on Wednesday. The game showcased the impressive skills of Adrián Martínez, who netted two crucial goals at the 27th minute of the first half and again at the 33rd minute of the second half. With these goals, he played an essential role in helping his team celebrate a well-earned win. Additionally, Adrián Balboa contributed to the scoreline with a goal in the 26th minute of the second half, resulting in a final score of 3-1. The only goal for San Martín (SJ) was scored by Horacio Tijanovich in the 18th minute of the first half.
In the 33rd minute of the second half, Martínez lifted the spirits of Racing Club, skillfully evading the defender on the right flank and delivering an accurate shot into the bottom corner, leaving San Martín’s goalkeeper Matías Borgogno with no chance.
During the match, both Adrián Balboa and Federico González saw their attempts hit the post, leaving them yearning for a goal.
The standout player of the match was undoubtedly Adrián Balboa, who not only scored but also attempted three shots on goal throughout the game. His performance was complemented by Adrián Martínez, who was influential with his two goal contributions.
Highlighting the first half, Tijanovich’s clever move that left Gabriel Arias bewildered delighted the fans.
Racing’s coach, Gustavo Costas, fielded a 3-4-3 formation, featuring Gabriel Arias in goal; Marco Di Césare, Santiago Sosa, and Nazareno Colombo in defense; while Facundo Mura, Juan Ignacio Nardoni, Richard Sánchez, and Gabriel Rojas operated in midfield. The attacking trio consisted of Santiago Solari, Adrián Martínez, and Ramiro Degregorio.
On the other hand, Leandro Romagnoli’s selection for San Martín (SJ) opted for a 4-4-2 setup, with Matías Borgogno protecting the goal; Alejandro Molina, Tomás Lecanda, Esteban Burgos, and Lucas Diarte in defense; Nicolás Watson, Diego González, Sebastián González, and Tomás Fernández comprised the midfield; while Federico González and Horacio Tijanovich led the attack.
The match, held at the Juan Gilberto Funes stadium, was officiated by referee Fernando Echenique.
This result allows Racing Club to celebrate their advancement to the Round of 16 in the Copa Argentina.
Substitutions for Racing Club
45’ 2T – Richard Sánchez was replaced by Bruno Zuculini
60’ 2T – Ramiro Degregorio was substituted for Adrián Balboa
67’ 2T – Gabriel Rojas made way for Ignacio Rodríguez
82’ 2T – Santiago Solari and Nicolás Watson were replaced by Agustín Almendra and Federico Anselmo respectively.
Yellow cards for Racing Club:
11’ 1T – Ramiro Degregorio
12’ 2T – Gabriel Rojas (Unsportsmanlike conduct)
31’ 2T – Adrián Balboa (Disputing with an opponent)
Red card for Racing Club:
35’ 2T – Adrián Martínez (Direct red)
Substitutions for San Martín (SJ)
75’ 2T – Tomás Fernández was replaced by Jonathan Menéndez
75’ 2T – Federico González came off for Santiago Barrera
83’ 2T – Horacio Tijanovich was substituted by Marco Iacobellis
83’ 2T – Sebastián González was replaced by Juan Ignacio Cavallaro.
Yellow cards for San Martín (SJ):
31’ 2T – Sebastián González (Disputing with an opponent)
35’ 2T – Nicolás Watson (Insulting or disapproving the referee)