On May 2, 2025, Racing Club secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Newell's Old Boys in a high-stakes match at the Estadio Presidente Perón, marking the final game of the Zona A in the Torneo Apertura 2025. The match was crucial for both teams, with Racing already qualified for the next round but looking to solidify their position, while Newell's desperately needed a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
The game's only goal came from an unfortunate own goal by Newell's defender Saúl Salcedo, who inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net in the dying moments of the match. Racing's triumph was particularly impressive given that they played the entire second half with ten men following the expulsion of Santiago Sosa, who received a second yellow card just before halftime.
The match kicked off at 15:30 local time, with referee Leandro Rey Hilfer overseeing the proceedings and Felipe Viola monitoring the VAR. Racing's manager Gustavo Costas fielded a lineup that included goalkeeper Gabriel Arias, defenders Marco Di Césare, Agustín García Basso, and Gastón Martirena, as well as midfielders Juan Nardoni and Richard Sánchez, and forwards Santiago Solari and Adrián Martínez.
Newell's, managed by Cristian Fabbiani, featured a strong lineup, including goalkeeper Keylor Navas, defenders Alejo Montero and Víctor Cuesta, and midfielders Ever Banega and Luciano Herrera. The match was intense from the outset, with both teams creating opportunities. However, Racing's defense, anchored by Arias, held firm against Newell's attacks.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Racing managed to stay organized and frustrate Newell's efforts. The visitors had a couple of golden chances to score, including a shot from Carlos González that hit the post, and a dangerous free kick from Banega that was expertly saved by Arias.
As the match approached its conclusion, the tension was palpable. Racing's players were determined to maintain their lead, while Newell's pressed forward, hoping to capitalize on any mistakes. However, it was Racing who found the breakthrough when Salcedo, attempting to clear a cross from Degregorio, redirected the ball past Navas, sealing the victory for the home side.
This win propelled Racing to third place in Zone A with 28 points, putting them in a strong position as they advance to the knockout stage of the tournament. They are set to face Dep. Riestra in the round of 16. Meanwhile, Newell's, with their playoff hopes dashed, finished the season in ninth place with 19 points, a disappointing outcome for a team that had shown promise under Fabbiani.
Racing's victory also highlighted their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, especially after playing with ten men for over 45 minutes. The match showcased the tactical discipline instilled by Costas, as well as the determination of players like Arias, who made crucial saves throughout the game.
Looking ahead, Racing will aim to build on this momentum as they prepare for the knockout stages, where every match will be a test of their capabilities. The team is hoping to leverage their home advantage to make a deep run in the tournament.
As for Newell's, the team will need to regroup and reflect on their performance this season. With Fabbiani at the helm, they had shown signs of improvement but ultimately fell short when it mattered most. The challenge now will be to bounce back in the next tournament and reclaim their place among the top teams in Argentine football.
Overall, this match served as a fitting conclusion to an intense group stage, with Racing celebrating a hard-fought victory while Newell's faced the bitter reality of elimination. Fans of both teams will be left eagerly anticipating what the future holds as the Liga Profesional progresses.
