31/07/2026 13:43 - Deportes
Matchday 2 – Torneo Clausura 2026 (Zone A) – July 30, 2026
Goal: Santiago Montiel (41' first half)
On a vibrant evening at the Estadio Libertadores de América – Ricardo Enrique Bochini, Independiente edged out Newell's Old Boys 1-0 to claim the top spot in Zone A with a perfect record. The team, managed by Gustavo Quinteros, took control from the start in front of their passionate home crowd. Just as the first half seemed destined for a goalless draw, Santiago Montiel unleashed a powerful strike from a cross by Maximiliano Gutiérrez, leaving the visiting goalkeeper with no chance. A true gem that sent the 'Rojo' faithful into ecstasy.
In the second half, Independiente showed remarkable discipline. Newell's, under Frank Darío Kudelka, pushed forward in search of an equalizer, but the home side defended intelligently. Goalkeeper Rodrigo Rey made a crucial save in a one-on-one situation against Juan Ignacio Ramírez. There was also a penalty appeal for a handball by Walter Mazzanti, which referee Pablo Echavarría waved away.
Independiente now has 6 points from two matches (they beat Estudiantes 2-0 on Matchday 1), sitting alone at the top of the group.
Independiente lost Gutiérrez (ankle) and Valdez to injuries. Newell's saw Mazzanti and Núñez leave the field, adding to their medical worries.
According to Rosario3, the portal rated Newell's players, with Josué Reinatti (6) being the standout in a difficult night. Here is the full breakdown:
| Player | Rating | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Josué Reinatti | 6 | Saved the team several times. Could do nothing about the goal. |
| Walter Mazzanti | 5.5 | One positive attacking action, assisted Ramírez. Left injured. |
| Lautaro Giannetti | 5 | No issues with Ávalos. |
| Bruno Cabrera | 5 | Didn't suffer much but couldn't prevent Montiel's goal. |
| Martín Luciano | 5 | Decent performance, but the goal came from a cross on his side. |
| Luca Regiardo | 5 | Attentive, but had to chase the ball often. |
| Juan Ignacio Ramírez | 5 | One shot saved by Rey. |
| Franco Escobar | 4.5 | His markers got the better of him. |
| Walter Núñez | 4.5 | Didn't make an impact and got injured. |
| David Sotelo | 4 | Little contribution in midfield. |
| Facundo Guch | 4 | Couldn't get on the ball or influence the game. |
The Torneo Clausura is the second half of the Argentine Primera División season, following the Apertura. It features two zones (A and B) with 15 teams each. The top eight from each zone advance to a knockout stage to determine the champion. Independiente's perfect start puts them in a strong position early on. Newell's, meanwhile, will look to bounce back in their next match.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
