Banfield took a big step towards the Fase Campeonato thanks to a 4-2 away success at Rosario Central last time out. Following that success, Javier Sanguinetti’s men remain as leaders in group 3 after taking all nine points so far. Banfield won 1-0 over Godoy Cruz at home two weeks ago, which stopped a five-game winless run of three draws and two defeats at Estadio Florencio Sola. Banfield striker Luciano Pons is ready to make his debut after overcoming a muscle problem.
Federico Girotti’s first goal as a professional footballer gave River Plate an important victory (1-0 away at Godoy Cruz) last weekend. The win allowed them to make it six points in three rounds and stay second-placed in group 3 on six points after two consecutive victories. Following that success, El Millonario has also made it 13 away matches unbeaten in domestic action, having won ten and drawn three of them since losing to Atletico Tucuman 3-0 in May 2019. River Plate players Franco Armani, Gonzalo Montiel, Paulo Diaz and Nicolas De la Cruz are available after playing in the World Cup Qualifiers. However, coach Marcelo Gallardo will likely rest them in view of next Tuesday’s Copa Libertadores’ game at Athletico Paranaense in Brazil.
These two met two weeks ago with Banfield surprising and getting a 3-1 win and now they will play again, with Banfield on top form and River using a mixed lineup. As much as I like Banfield chances of winning, I think their odds are too low, but I can imagine another open game with goals as the hosts will try to get the win that will put them in the next stage of this cup.