Independiente vs Talleres
Independiente returned to winning ways right on time to keep their hope alive. Last time out, the team secured a massive 1-0 away success at Banfield, with Jhonny Quinonez netting a penalty in the first half. El Rojo put an end to their four-match winless streak of three stalemates and one defeat to make it 22 points in group A, now trailing fourth-placed Talleres by one, which means they will advance to the Copa Liga Profesional playoffs in the event of winning here. Independiente have been irregular at home in this competition, winning two, drawing two and losing two so far. Defensive midfielder Ivan Marcone is expected to be available after recovering from dengue.
Talleres coach Walter Ribonetto rested all his usual starters in round 13 and the team just drew 1-1 at home against newcomers Independiente Rivadavia, one of the worst teams in the league. Even though La T extended their unbeaten run to seven Copa Liga Profesional matches (three victories and four stalemates), the side wasted a big chance to secure their spot in the playoffs: they are now on 23 points and still need a win here in order to not depend on other results. Talleres lost only one of six on away turf in domestic action this term, winning two and drawing three. On Wednesday 10, Talleres drew 2-2 away at Ecuador’s Barcelona SC in a Copa Libertadores group match.
If Independiente wins they will advance to the playoffs, Talleres could advance with a draw but if Velez wins a draw won’t be enough for either of them, so I have to expect an open game here as they both could get desperate for the 3 points they need in this last round.