The highly anticipated match between Talleres and São Paulo took place on April 2, 2025, at 21h30 (Brasília time) at the Estádio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba, Argentina. This game marked the first round of the Copa Libertadores group stage, where both teams aimed to start their campaigns on a high note. The matchup was broadcasted live on Globo, ESPN, and Disney+, allowing fans to catch the action from various platforms.
Talleres entered the match under significant pressure, having not won in their last nine games in the Argentinian Championship. The team's recent form was concerning, as they had recorded six draws and one loss, leaving them in a precarious position in the league standings. Coach Alexander 'Cacique' Medina was keen to turn things around and had to rely on his squad to deliver a strong performance against São Paulo.
Meanwhile, São Paulo was looking to bounce back from a disappointing 0-0 draw against Sport in their Brasileirão debut. The Tricolor, as they are known, was determined to secure their first victory against Talleres in Córdoba, having only managed one win in their previous encounters. The stakes were high for São Paulo, as they aimed to reclaim the Libertadores title they last won twenty years ago.
As for the lineups, Talleres was set to start with Guido Herrera in goal, supported by a defensive line featuring Gastón Benavídez, Juan Portillo, Santiago Fernández, and Blas Riveros. The midfield would consist of Ulises Ortegoza and Kevin Portilla, while Matías Galarza, Rubén Botta, and Rick would provide support in attack, with Nahuel Bustos leading the line. Coach Medina opted for this lineup despite the team's recent struggles, hoping to harness the home advantage.
On the other side, São Paulo's lineup featured Rafael in goal, with a back three of Nahuel Ferraresi, Robert Arboleda, and Alan Franco. The midfield was anchored by Luiz Gustavo and Alisson, with Oscar returning from injury to play a crucial role. Up front, Luciano and Jonathan Calleri were tasked with finding the back of the net. Coach Luis Zubeldía faced challenges with injuries to key players, including Lucas Moura and Pablo Maia, but welcomed the return of Oscar to bolster his squad.
The historical context of the match added an intriguing layer to the encounter. Talleres and São Paulo had faced each other six times in competitive matches, with the Argentinians holding a slight edge with two wins compared to São Paulo's one, alongside three draws. This statistic added pressure on both teams as they sought to improve their records against each other.
As the match kicked off, both teams displayed a cautious approach, aware of the importance of securing points early in the tournament. Talleres, motivated by the home crowd, sought to dominate possession, while São Paulo aimed to exploit counter-attacking opportunities. The first half saw both sides struggle to create clear chances, with defensive solidity taking precedence over offensive flair.
In the 30th minute, Talleres came close to breaking the deadlock when Matías Galarza's shot from outside the box forced a spectacular save from São Paulo's goalkeeper Rafael. The Tricolor responded with a swift counter-attack, but Luciano's effort was thwarted by the Talleres defense. The first half ended in a stalemate, with both teams still searching for their first breakthrough.
As the second half commenced, the intensity of the match increased. Talleres, desperate for a win, pushed forward, and in the 55th minute, they finally found the back of the net. A well-placed cross from Rick found Nahuel Bustos, who headed the ball past Rafael, sending the home fans into a frenzy. The goal was a much-needed boost for Talleres, who celebrated as they took the lead.
However, São Paulo was not about to back down. Coach Zubeldía made tactical adjustments, bringing on fresh legs to invigorate the attack. The changes paid off when Oscar, who had returned from injury, played a pivotal role in the 70th minute, creating space for Alisson to fire a shot that equalized the score. The tension in the stadium escalated as both teams pushed for a winning goal.
With the match approaching its conclusion, the atmosphere was electric. Talleres, still reeling from the equalizer, fought hard to regain their lead. In the 85th minute, the home side had a golden opportunity to score when a defensive lapse from São Paulo allowed Galarza to break free, but Rafael was there to make a crucial save.
As the final whistle approached, both teams were intent on finding a winner. The match ended in a thrilling 1-1 draw, leaving both sides with mixed feelings. Talleres would be disappointed not to secure their first win in ten attempts, while São Paulo would take heart from their resilience to come back and earn a point.
This match was just the beginning of the group stage for both teams, with Talleres and São Paulo looking to build on their performances in the upcoming fixtures. As the tournament progresses, each match will be crucial in determining their fates in the Copa Libertadores.
Fans will be eagerly awaiting the next round of matches, where both teams will aim to secure vital points and keep their hopes alive in the prestigious tournament.
