Banfield vs Velez
Banfield are clearly improving after a hectic start in the Copa Liga Profesional. Last Wednesday, the team played an excellent second half to secure a big 3-0 away success at Atletico Tucuman. El Taladro made it five league matches without defeat (winning two and drawing three) to accumulate ten points in nine rounds this term, which allows them to escape from relegation threats. At home, Banfield secured four points in as many matches this term, having won one, drawn one and lost two. Emanuel Insua returns after missing the last game due to an infection.
Velez Sarsfield continues to improve game after game. Last Tuesday, the team secured another late victory, beating Rosario Central 1-0 at home thanks to a goal from Abiel Osorio in the 87th minute. El Fortin extended their unbeaten streak to six league games (four victories and two stalemates) to make it 15 points in the Copa Liga Profesional, just two behind the last playoff spot in group A. Velez managed five points in four away matches in 2024 as a product of one win, two draws and one loss.
Even if they are having a good season, I can’t see Velez as favorites here considering how much Banfield has improved lately. They have no defeats in the last 5 games, won the last two scoring 5 goals without conceding goals, and will host this good team of Velez that doesn’t play that well away from their stadium.