Lanus took a big step towards securing a ticket to the playoffs last time out, when beating Gimnasia LP 4-2 away. Having lost only one of their last five league matches (along with three victories and one draw), El Granate are second-placed in group B on 16 points, trailing leaders Velez Sarsfield by three. At home, the side made it six matches unbeaten in league action, having won five and drawn one since losing to Newell’s Old Boys 4-2 in November 2020.

Newell’s Old Boys are yet to win this season. Last time out, they registered the third consecutive draw under coach German Burgos’ tutelage (2-2 at home against Huracan, having conceded the equaliser with just four minutes to go). Winless in their last ten league matches (four stalemates and six defeats), La Lepra are sitting in 12th in group B on four points, which is an unacceptable campaign for the fans. On away turf, Newell’s took only two points from the last 15 available.

Despite the coach change Newell’s has been quite disappointing so far and I think Lanus should take the win they need to almost secure a playoff spot.