Talleres vs Sarmiento
Talleres coach Pedro Caixinha’s decision to rest his regulars didn’t go well last weekend, when the team succumbed to a 3-0 away defeat at relegation candidates Atletico Tucuman. While focusing on the Copa Libertadores, La T lost four of their last five league matches, which dropped down to the bottom spot of the group A table on eight points. On a positive note, seven of those points were claimed at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes following two victories, one draw and three losses in this competition. On Wednesday 4, Talleres drew 2-2 at home against Flamengo from Brazil in a Copa Libertadores group game.
Sarmiento’s four-league match unbeaten streak of three victories and one draw came to an end in the worst possible way: the team couldn’t stop River Plate’s offensive power and ended up losing 7-0 at home. As a result, the team need a miracle to advance to to the playoffs: El Verde would have to beat Talleres and wait for Defensa y Justicia and Argentinos Juniors to drop points. However, their campaign is still good, accumulating 21 points, which also allows them to stay out of the relegation zone.
Sarmiento’s chances of getting a playoff spot are close to none due to their awful goal difference, but they will have to take risks and go for the win anyway so I expect an open game with goals.