Newell’s Old Boys performed under their usual standards in the Copa Liga Profesional’s opener, when losing 3-1 away at Talleres in a key game with regard to the qualification for the Fase Campeonato. La Lepra managed to win only one of their last four top-flight matches, along with one draw and two defeats. They also lost their last game at Estadio Marcelo Bielsa to Godoy Cruz 2-0, which stopped Newell’s three-game unbeaten run at home (two victories and a single draw without conceding). Newell’s Old Boys coach Frank Kudelka will be missing Fabricio Fontanini as the centre back saw a red card at Talleres last time out. Manuel Guanini will take his spot in the only expected change.
Boca Juniors continue to extend their unbeaten run under Miguel Angel Russo’s tutelage. Following their 2-1 away success at Lanus (goals from Carlos Tevez and Ramon Abila), the defending league champions are now on eight consecutive victories and one draw in top-flight action since the new boss arrived. On away turf, they remain perfect in 2020 domestic games, having won all five. Boca Juniors starting goalkeeper Esteban Andrada has overcome his muscle issues and is fit to travel to Rosario on Sunday. The squad are full as the club decided to allow Sebastian Villa to play while his sexual harassment charges remain unresolved. Â
Newell’s has a solid attack with veterans Maxi Rodriguez and Ignacio Socco, but they showed poor defense last week in the 1-3 defeat vs Talleres and that’s something they can’t afford against Boca. I expect an open game here with goals.