Independiente secured their first victory of the Copa Argentina on February 26, 2025, with a 2-0 win over Sportivo Belgrano, moving forward to the next round of the prestigious competition.
The match took place at the Estadio Único de San Nicolás, and it was clear from the outset this was no ordinary encounter. Both teams showcased early aggression, having clear chances to etch their names on the score sheet. Independiente's Diego Tarzia, who proved to be instrumental, opened the scoring, exploiting defensive lapses from the Cordobans.
Independiente came together with solid performances from players like Santiago Montiel and Federico Mancuello, who contributed significant plays throughout the match. Just 30 minutes in, after a bevy of attacks, Tarzia found the back of the net, slotting the ball home after capitalizing on confusion within the Sportivo Belgrano defense.
The early lead may have momentarily unsettled Sportivo Belgrano, who could have leveled the score shortly after but failed to convert their chances, thanks to standout goalkeeping from Rodrigo Rey. Sporting bright green and white colors, Sportivo's initial drive was countered effectively by Rey, who would later show why he is touted as one of the best goalkeepers in Argentine football.
"Rodrigo Rey had to step up and prove he's the best goalkeeper in Argentine football," reported Infobae, underscoring the importance of his interventions as the match progressed. Rey's heroics added to Independiente's confidence as they sailed through the first half.
The rain-soaked pitch did not deter the pace of the game as Independiente maintained pressure throughout the second half. Interestingly, they found themselves amid controversy following Tarzia’s first goal, with Sportivo Belgrano’s bench claiming he was offside. The absence of VAR—due to the tournament's regulations—rendered all protests ineffective, and the referee stood by his decision.
Frustration mounted for the Cordoban side, and it did not take long for Mancuello to widen the gap. A handball by Sportivo Belgrano’s Tomás Nallim inside the area prompted the referee, Andrés Gariano, to point to the spot. Mancuello confidently converted the penalty to secure the match at 2-0 with only minutes left on the clock.
"Mancuello showed composure to convert the penalty and seal the win," Infobae noted, highlighting the player's confidence under pressure which proved pivotal for the Avellaneda outfit.
This victory for Independiente not only ensures their progression to the 16th finals of the Copa Argentina but also boosts their morale heading back to league action. They are set to face Gimnasia de Mendoza—having produced their own remarkable feat by defeating Nueva Chicago 2-0.
With the stakes rising, Independiente's ability to captivate their audience offers promise for enthusiasts. Their performance exemplifies the hunger and determination to finally conquer the elusive Copa Argentina trophy, which remains one of the few honors missing from the prestigious club's vast cabinet.
The next fixture will see Independiente visit Banfield for the eighth round of the Torneo Apertura, where they aim to challenge for the top of Zone B, currently one point behind Rosario Central. It’s evident this victory served as fuel for both immediate and long-term aspirations as coach Julio Vaccari aims to balance league success with cup ambitions.
Independiente’s victory over Sportivo marks not just progress, but possibly the beginning of something significant for the club, leaving fans to wonder: could this finally be their year?