In a thrilling encounter that marked the first round of the Apertura, Argentinos Juniors triumphed over Sarmiento with a narrow 1-0 win, courtesy of a late goal by Tomás Molina in the 51st minute of the second half.
The decisive moment came when Molina connected with a header following a corner taken by Leandro Lozano, asserting dominance in the box to secure the point for his team.
Despite several attempts to find the back of the net, including two shots from Alan Lescano that struck the woodwork, it was Molina’s effort that ultimately defined the match.
Molina was undoubtedly the star of the match, not only for his goal but for his relentless pursuit of the net, firing six shots on target throughout the game.
Javier Burrai, the goalkeeper for Sarmiento, also made an impressive showing. He was on high alert, saving eight shots from the attacking threat posed by Argentinos Juniors.
During the first half, Sarmiento’s Jhon Renteria showcased his skill by outmaneuvering Argentinos Juniors’ Alan Lescano with a brilliant nutmeg.
Argentinos Juniors deployed a 4-3-3 formation under coach Nicolás Diez, with Brayan Cortés guarding the goal, supported by a defensive line comprising Leandro Lozano, Francisco Álvarez, Tobías Ramírez Cardozo, and Sebastián Prieto. The midfield featured Alan Lescano, Federico Fattori, and Nicolás Oroz, while the attacking trio consisted of Diego Porcel, Tomás Molina, and Lautaro Giaccone.
Meanwhile, Sarmiento, managed by Facundo Sava, utilized a 4-4-2 layout, fielding Javier Burrai as goalkeeper, with defenders Juan Manuel Cabrera, Renzo Orihuela, Juan Manuel Insaurralde, and Yair Arismendi. The midfield was manned by Santiago Salle, Cristian Zabala, Manuel García, and Jhon Renteria, while Junior Marabel and Diego Churín led the attack.
The referee Andrés Gariano officiated the match.
Argentinos Juniors will next face Estudiantes (RC) in their upcoming fixture, whereas Sarmiento will play host to Banfield at the Eva Perón stadium.
Substitutions for Argentinos Juniors
64’ 2T – Sebastián Prieto was replaced by Leandro Fernández
72’ 2T – Nicolás Oroz was substituted for Ryoga Kida
Yellow Cards for Argentinos Juniors:
27’ 1T Tobías Ramírez Cardozo
38’ 1T Francisco Álvarez
53’ 2T Tomás Molina
Substitutions for Sarmiento
45’ 2T – Juan Manuel Cabrera was substituted for Julián Contreras
56’ 2T – Jhon Renteria made way for Carlos Villalba and Junior Marabel for Brandon Márquez
73’ 2T – Cristian Zabala was replaced by Gaston Arturia
83’ 2T – Diego Churín was substituted for Ulises Delgado and Francisco Álvarez for Facundo Jainikoski
Yellow Cards for Sarmiento:
21’ 1T Juan Manuel Insaurralde
33’ 1T Juan Manuel Cabrera
6’ 2T Jhon Renteria
16’ 2T Brandon Márquez
24’ 2T Facundo Sava
47’ 2T Carlos Villalba
Red Card for Sarmiento:
14’ 2T Juan Manuel Insaurralde (Direct red)