Talleres Córdoba will go head-to-head against Newell's Old Boys this Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 19:30 (Brasilia time) as part of the final round of the Argentine Liga Profesional. The match, set to take place at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba, carries significant weight for Talleres, who are still vying for the championship title.
With five consecutive victories under their belt, Talleres enters this clash as the clear favorites, hoping to capitalize on their home advantage against struggling Newell's. Currently sitting second in the league with 48 points, Talleres is neatly tied with Vélez Sarsfield at the top, but needs to secure victory against Newell's and wish for Vélez to stumble against Huracán to clinch the title.
On the flip side, Newell's Old Boys finds themselves anchored at the 26th position, accumulating only 25 points this season. Their recent form has not been favorable, suffering two successive defeats—in their last match, Newell's was edged out 1-0 by Boca Juniors. The team has barely managed to put together any momentum, with just one win, one draw, and three losses from their last five matches.
Despite the circumstances, it has been reported, "Para sagrar-se campeão, o time precisa vencer o Newell’s Old Boys e torcer por um tropeço do Vélez Sarsfield," indicating just how important this match is for Talleres. To add to the pressure, they have had historical success on home turf, with their supporters expected to turn out for another dramatic match.
Talleres and their fans will be keeping their fingers crossed, as the team needs not just to defeat Newell’s, but also rely on external results. Notable for shifting the balance of power, the outcome of this match is likely to influence the teams’ satisfaction levels for the season.
The probable line-up for Talleres includes Herrera; Benavídez, Portillo, Juan Gabriel Rodríguez, and Navarro; Portilla and Galarza; Alejandro Martínez, Esquivel, and Barticciotto; Tarragona. Coach Walter Ribonetto is expected to field his best players, especially after such strong recent performances.
Newell's Old Boys are not without their strengths, with key players including veteran Éver Banega, who continues to be influential on the pitch. Their acting coach Mariano Soso will look to extract the best from his players, even if their league positioning is far from ideal.
Despite their place at the bottom of the league standings, Newell's could still provide significant challenges and upset Talleres’ plans. The stakes are high, and both teams will approach this match with different motivations—one aiming for glory and another just to fulfill the schedule.
The atmosphere on match day is expected to be electric with passionate fans, and the players of Talleres are ready to seize the opportunity. A victory not only presents a chance at the title but also serves to solidify their reputation as one of Argentina's premier football clubs.
With the title aspirations hanging by a thread, Talleres must channel all their momentum and expertise to outmaneuver Newell’s Old Boys, who, though not making waves this season, still have the capability to challenge, demanding respect from opponents.
While there will be no television coverage of the match for audiences in Brazil, those interested can watch via streaming on Disney+. The kick-off promises to be thrilling, and regardless of the outcome, it symbolizes the spirit of competitive football inherent to Argentine culture.
It’s time for Talleres to show their might as they strive for champions’ status—can they deliver on this pivotal night? Fans around Argentina will be watching closely.
