Defensa y Justicia secured its spot for the 2025 Copa Sudamericana after playing to a goalless draw against Unión de Santa Fe on December 15, 2024, at the Estadio Norberto Tomaghello. This match was part of the final round of the Liga Profesional, and both teams had already qualified for the international tournament earlier.
From kickoff, Defensa y Justicia, under coach Pablo De Muner, took the initiative. They dominated possession and frequently pushed forward with promising attacks. The home side was particularly active during the first half, with Nicolás Palavecino and Kevin López trying to threaten Unión's defense. Despite their efforts, the team faced some stiff resistance.
On the defensive side, Unión, led by coach Cristian González, adopted a different approach. With two strikers up front, they relied on long balls, hoping to capitalize on counterattacks. Unión’s efforts included several attempts to score but were thwarted at every turn by the vigilant Defensa y Justicia goalkeeper Enrique Bologna, who kept his net intact throughout the game.
First-half highlights included Cardozo stopping Palavecino's shot with his chest and Ramos Mingo heading wide from a corner. Defensive strategies by both teams kept the scoreline unchanged. Each side had opportunities but failed to find the back of the net, leading to frustration as they went to halftime without any goals.
The second half saw changes as both teams struggled to maintain the game's earlier intensity. The momentum shifted slightly when Unión found their rhythm, with two clear chances to alter the score. Lionel Verde came perilously close, but his thunderous shot rang off the crossbar, much to the relief of Bologna and the Defensa crowd.
Despite both teams striving for the win, impressive saves by both keepers, especially from Unión's Thiago Cardozo, kept the score to 0-0. The stalemate highlighted the tactical battle, showcasing solid defensive organization, but disappointing for fans expecting goals. Few would deny, though, it was far from boring—each player involved gave it their all.
After the final whistle, both sides confirmed their places for the Copa Sudamericana. Defensa y Justicia's ninth consecutive participation reflects the club's consistent performance, even during turbulent league seasons. This was emphasized by the management stating, "This will be their ninth consecutive year playing a continental tournament," recognition of their efforts over the years.
Unión de Santa Fe also finishes the season strongly with 40 points, having previously secured their tournament spot. Their performance this season included brief moments of contention for the top spots but inconsistency punctuated their campaign, with their players including Mauro Pittón and Adrian Balboa attempting to generate momentum down the stretch.
Overall, the match revealed the traits both teams are renowned for: Defensa y Justicia's offensive strategy contrasted with Unión’s organized defense. This encounter may be goalless, but it emphasized the tactical depth both teams possess and the importance of finishing opportunities.
Reflecting on their achievements, Defensa y Justicia fans can look back to their Copa Sudamericana triumph back in 2021—an achievement made notable by their top-tier footballing talents. Their victory is etched in memory, especially as players like Enzo Fernández have gone on to international success. With strong foundations continuing to build this solid club culture, hopes are high for what’s next.