Newell’s vs Independiente 

Newell’s Old Boys earned their first point this season following a 2-2 away draw at Talleres in a thrilling game last Saturday. Frank Kudelka’s men extended their winless streak to five league matches, having registered one stalemate and four defeats since beating CA Central Cordoba 3-1 at home in December 2020. Since then, La Lepra lost their two home games (to Velez Sarsfield and Boca Juniors). Striker Jonathan Cristaldo is expected to be available for the first time since arriving from Racing Club.

Independiente climbed into the playoff spots in group B after beating Gimnasia LP 1-0 at home thanks to a goal from Silvio Romero in the second half. El Rojo managed two consecutive victories (and three in their last four league games, along with one defeat) to make it six points this season.

Despite their consecutive 1-0 wins, I’m still not convinced by this Independiente that doesn’t play well and was lucky to get those points. Newell’s showed a good performance last week against Talleres and I don’t think they will lose at home.