The match between Racing Club and San Martín (SJ) took place on Wednesday as part of the Copa Argentina, where the Academy secured a narrow victory. Adrián Martínez showcased his scoring prowess by netting two goals, with strikes at the 27th minute of the first half and again in the 33rd minute of the second half. His efforts were pivotal in ensuring Racing Club celebrated this hard-fought match. The final score of 3-1 was also influenced by a goal from Adrián Balboa, who scored in the 26th minute of the second half. San Martín (SJ) managed to find the net courtesy of Horacio Tijanovich, who scored in the 18th minute of the first half.
In a moment that lifted the spirits of the Academy fans, Martínez demonstrated his skill by skillfully evading defenders down the right flank and firing accurately into the right corner of the net, leaving goalkeeper Matías Borgogno with no chance.
Both teams had opportunities to score. Balboa for Racing Club and Federico González for San Martín (SJ) could have added to their respective tallies, but their attempts hit the woodwork.
The standout performer of the match was Adrián Balboa, who not only scored one goal but also had three shots on target, showcasing his attacking flair.
Martínez was another notable player, with two goals and displaying excellent form throughout the match.
Fans were also thrilled by Tijanovich’s brilliant play, notably when he pulled off a nutmeg on Gabriel Arias in the 18th minute.
Racing’s coach, Gustavo Costas, fielded a 3-4-3 formation with Gabriel Arias as the goalkeeper; Marco Di Césare, Santiago Sosa, and Nazareno Colombo forming the defense; a midfield of Facundo Mura, Juan Ignacio Nardoni, Richard Sánchez, and Gabriel Rojas; and a forward line featuring Santiago Solari, Adrián Martínez, and Ramiro Degregorio.
On the other hand, Leandro Romagnoli’s San Martín (SJ) lined up in a 4-4-2 setup with Matías Borgogno in goal; Alejandro Molina, Tomás Lecanda, Esteban Burgos, and Lucas Diarte in defense; Nicolás Watson, Diego González, Sebastián González, and Tomás Fernández in midfield; and a strike partnership of Federico González and Horacio Tijanovich.
The officiating was handled by Fernando Echenique at Estadio Juan Gilberto Funes. With this victory, Racing Club has successfully booked its ticket to the Round of 16 of the Copa Argentina.
Racing Club Substitutions
45’ 2T – Richard Sánchez was replaced by Bruno Zuculini 60’ 2T – Ramiro Degregorio was substituted for Adrián Balboa 67’ 2T – Gabriel Rojas went off 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 (Unsporting behavior), 31’ 2T Adrián Balboa (Argument with an opponent)
Red Card for Racing Club:
35’ 2T Adrián Martínez (Direct red)
San Martín (SJ) Substitutions
75’ 2T – Tomás Fernández was substituted for Jonathan Menéndez and Federico González for Santiago Barrera 83’ 2T – Horacio Tijanovich went off for Marco Iacobellis and Sebastián González for Juan Ignacio Cavallaro.
Yellow Cards for San Martín (SJ):
31’ 2T Sebastián González (Argument with an opponent), 35’ 2T Nicolás Watson (Insulting or disapproving of the referee)