A Derby Full of Emotion and Drama
On September 6, 2026, the Gigante de Arroyito stadium in Rosario, Argentina, hosted another edition of the classic derby between Rosario Central and Newell's Old Boys. The match, part of the Argentine football league, ended in a 1-1 draw that left mixed feelings: relief for Newell's, frustration and concern for Central.
The referee was Yael Falcón Pérez, with Lucas Novelli on VAR and Gastón Suárez as assistant VAR. The game was balanced but intense, especially in the final minutes.
First Half: Central Dominates and Ávila Scores a Stunner
Rosario Central started with determination, pressing high and creating the best chances. Their dominance paid off in the 45th minute of the first half, when Gastón Ávila connected with a spectacular left-footed volley that left the goalkeeper with no chance. The Gigante erupted in celebration, and Jorge Almirón's team went into halftime with a deserved lead.
Newell's, on the other hand, had a poor first half, lacking creativity and struggling defensively. The team, coached by Kudelka, needed a change of attitude for the second half.
Second Half: Newell's Reacts and Late Drama Unfolds
In the second half, Newell's showed a different side. Kudelka made substitutions, bringing on Mateo García, Gómez Mattar, Russo, Ramírez, and Scarpeccio, which added freshness and attacking presence. Central, meanwhile, sat back and tried to hold on, but fatigue and pressure began to take their toll.
The equalizer came in the last play of the match, in the 46th minute of the second half. A long ball, a header from Scarpeccio, an assist from Ramírez, and a finish from Matías Cóccaro made it 1-1. The visiting fans celebrated wildly, but the joy was short-lived as the referee initially disallowed the goal for offside. However, the VAR intervened and confirmed the goal after review.
The decision sparked protests from Central's players and coaching staff, and home fans threw projectiles onto the pitch, forcing security to intervene to restore order.
Cóccaro's Reaction: Frustration and Pride
Goal scorer Matías Cóccaro spoke after the match, saying: “We came to win, we played to win, and it didn't happen. I knew I was onside, a lot of frustration, we came to win it.” The striker highlighted the importance of the derby and the unwavering support of the fans, who never stopped cheering despite the difficulties.
For Newell's, this draw has enormous emotional value, as it ends a streak of six consecutive defeats against their eternal rival. For Central, the result increases the pressure on coach Jorge Almirón, whose position is increasingly questioned due to poor results in important matches.
A Derby with Few Chances but High Tension
The match was not a display of attacking football: Central had only one shot on target, and Newell's had a one-on-one chance. However, the tension and intensity typical of a derby were present from start to finish. Additionally, Newell's fans paid tribute to Lionel Messi during the match, a gesture that moved those present and went viral on social media.
With this result, both teams earn a point that feels like little for Central and a lot for Newell's. The Rosario derby once again proved that there are no favorites and that passion is lived to the fullest in every play.