In the opening match of the Apertura, Belgrano achieved a crucial away win against Rosario Central, finishing 2-1. The home team’s only goal came from Ángel Di María who scored a penalty in the 47th minute of the first half. Belgrano responded with two goals in the second half, one from Lautaro Gutierrez in the 44th minute and an own goal from Facundo Mallo in the 42nd minute.
Rosario Central had a great opportunity to extend their lead when Enzo Giménez hit the post with a shot in the 60th minute of the second half, leaving them unfortunate to not score again.
Lautaro Gutierrez was undoubtedly the standout player of the match, showcasing his talent with a crucial goal for Belgrano. Additionally, goalkeeper Thiago Cardozo was instrumental, making an impressive eight saves throughout the game.
Central’s coach, Jorge Almirón, employed a 3-5-2 formation, featuring Jeremías Ledesma in goal, with Facundo Mallo, Ignacio Ovando, and Alexis Soto forming the defensive line. The midfield included Enzo Giménez, Franco Ibarra, Vicente Pizarro, Agustín Sández, and Ángel Di María, with Alejo Veliz and Jaminton Campaz leading the attack.
On the other hand, Belgrano, managed by Ricardo Zielinski, set up in a 4-4-2 formation with Thiago Cardozo in goal, backed by a defense of Leonardo Morales, Alexis Maldonado, Lisandro López, and Federico Ricca. The midfield consisted of Emiliano Rigoni, Adrián Sánchez, Santiago Longo, and Juan Velázquez, while Nicolás Fernández and Lucas Zelarayán spearheaded the attack.
The match referee, Yael Falcón Pérez, officiated the tightly contested game held at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito.
Looking ahead, Rosario Central will travel to Racing Club for their next match, while Belgrano is set to face Tigre at home.
Substitutions for Rosario Central
67’ 2T – Alexis Soto was replaced by Enzo Copetti, and Alejo Veliz came off for Emanuel Coronel. 86’ 2T – Franco Ibarra was substituted for Federico Navarro and Jaminton Campaz left the field for Luca Raffin.
Yellow Cards for Rosario Central:
14’ 2T – Franco Ibarra (pulling an opponent to prevent advancement), 20’ 2T – Ignacio Ovando (pulling an opponent to prevent advancement).
Substitutions for Belgrano
45’ 2T – Leonardo Morales was substituted by Alcides Benitez. 57’ 2T – Adrián Sánchez was replaced by Francisco González Metilli. 74’ 2T – Emiliano Rigoni made way for Lucas Passerini. 82’ 2T – Santiago Longo was substituted by Lautaro Gutierrez, and Juan Velázquez was replaced by Ramiro Hernández.
Yellow Card for Belgrano:
28’ 1T – Leonardo Morales (pulling an opponent to prevent advancement).
Red Card for Belgrano:
5’ 2T – Ricardo Zielinski (direct red).