On Friday, the seasoned side Independiente claimed a decisive 4-2 victory against Atenas de Rio Cuarto in their Copa Argentina Round 24 clash. Facundo Valdez opened the scoring for the hosts in the 19th minute, followed by goals from Ignacio Pussetto and Luciano Cabral in the 37th and 41st minute respectively, and Felipe Tempone added another in the 69th minute. For the visitors, Facundo Quiroga netted a stunning free-kick in the 44th minute, and Marcos Rivadero found the net just before the final whistle in the 46th minute.
Despite the victory, Independiente’s Santiago Montiel had a chance to extend the lead but missed a penalty in the 86th minute of the second half.
Facundo Valdez was exceptional during the match, contributing one goal and providing two key passes. Another standout performer was Matías Abaldo, who had four shots on goal throughout the game.
Gustavo Quinteros, the head coach of Independiente, opted for a 4-3-3 formation, fielding Joaquín Blázquez in goal; with a defensive line comprising Leonardo Godoy, Juan Manuel Fedorco, Nicolás Freire, and Milton Valenzuela; a midfield trio of Mateo Pérez Curci, Iván Marcone, and Luciano Cabral; and an attacking front featuring Facundo Valdez, Ignacio Pussetto, and Matías Abaldo.
In contrast, Martín Leva’s squad set up in a 4-5-1 formation, with Matías Soria guarding the goal; Rafael Ríos, Francisco Araya, Mauricio Mansilla, and Agustín Galeazzi on defense; a midfield comprised of Marcos Rivadero, Juan Barrera, Ignacio Castro, Facundo Quiroga, and Franco Schiavoni; and Alejo Mainero leading the line.
Referee Fernando Espinoza oversaw the match, ensuring a well-regulated encounter.
Independiente’s ambitions in the Copa Argentina remain intact as they progress to the Round of 32.
Substitutions for Independiente
67’ 2T – Iván Marcone was replaced by Joel Medina; Facundo Valdez was substituted for Felipe Tempone.
72’ 2T – Luciano Cabral made way for Ignacio Malcorra; Ignacio Pussetto came off for Santiago Montiel.
79’ 2T – Matías Abaldo was substituted for Josías Palais.
Yellow Cards for Independiente:
44’ 2T Nicolás Freire.
Substitutions for Atenas de Rio Cuarto
12’ 1T – Agustín Galeazzi was replaced by Thiago Pagliaricci.
45’ 2T – Rafael Ríos left the pitch for Emiliano Gómez; Franco Schiavoni was substituted for Paulo Oballes.
71’ 2T – Ignacio Castro was replaced by Mariano Martínez.
80’ 2T – Juan Barrera made way for Luciano Gutiérrez.
Yellow Cards for Atenas de Rio Cuarto:
15’ 1T Mauricio Mansilla (unsportsmanlike conduct); 49’ 2T Marcos Rivadero.