In a highly anticipated encounter for the Copa Argentina 2025, Talleres de Córdoba took on Deportivo Armenio on March 19 at 18:00 at the Estadio Brigadier Estanislao López in Colón de Santa Fe. Refereed by Nicolás Lamolina, this match featured a significant clash between a professional team and one from the lower division.
The game was broadcast live on TyC Sports, with fans eagerly tuning in to see how this important cup tie would unfold. Historically, the two clubs had met only four times between 1987 and 1989, with each recording two victories, lending a fascinating backdrop to their latest meeting.
Coming into the match, Talleres had been a regular in the Argentine football scene, recently winning the Supercopa Internacional against River Plate, but their form this season has been inconsistent. They were sitting 13th in Group B of the Torneo Apertura 2025, accumulating just seven points from one win, four draws, and four losses. Their aim was not only to advance in the cup but also to regain momentum after drawing their last two fixtures against Sarmiento and Central.
Deportivo Armenio, competing in the B Metropolitana, was also hoping to lift its spirits. Prior to the match, they had an up-and-down start to their league campaign, with eight points from six matches, following a 3-0 victory against Deportivo Merlo but suffering losses in their last two outings. Their motivation to succeed in this cup was to reach the second round for only the second time in their history, their only previous appearance being in the 2012/13 season.
The odds heavily favored Talleres for this matchup, reflecting their higher league status, with a betting line of 1.28 for their victory while Armenio’s stood at 15.0. A draw, which would lead to penalties, had odds of up to 5.80. With such stakes, the expectations were high for an entertaining clash.
As the match kicked off, both teams sought to impose their style. Talleres struck first as Cristian Tarragona put them ahead with a goal in the 15th minute, setting the stage for a potentially strong performance. The support from the home fans was palpable as they cheered for their team to build on this early success.
Rubén Botta doubled Talleres' lead in the 18th minute, making it 2-0 within the first half. It seemed like the team would capitalize on its higher odds and historical advantage effectively. They created a series of opportunities, continually pressing through the midfield while maintaining a solid defensive shape.
However, Deportivo Armenio had other plans. Despite the initial setbacks, the team managed to regroup. Jonathan Herrera starred for Armenio, making pivotal contributions throughout the match. He managed to get his team back into the game by quickly scoring three consecutive goals, which turned the momentum. By the second half, he scored remarkably to level the match at 2-2 and then later contributed a third goal, pushing Armenio ahead at 3-2.
The match was not without its share of drama, with both teams demonstrating resilience and determination. Talleres, having fallen behind, sought to recover their position, but despite their efforts, they could not find the equalizer. The tension in the stadium grew as the second half progressed, with Armenian supporters exulting and Talleres' fans growing increasingly frustrated.
In the end, the match concluded with Deportivo Armenio securing a thrilling 3-2 victory over Talleres. The outcome was not only a significant upset but a momentous occasion for Armenio as they progressed to face Deportivo Riestra in the next phase of the tournament. Deportivo Riestra had previously eliminated San Telmo in a dramatic penalty shootout after their own match ended in a 2-2 draw in regulation.
The implications of this match are profound for both clubs. For Talleres, it serves as a wake-up call on the need to address their league performance and regain form before the season progresses. For Deportivo Armenio, this victory could galvanize a season that started with uneven performances, rekindling aspirations of making deeper runs in other competitions.
As the Copa Argentina continues to unfold, this match serves as a reminder of the magic that knockout football can deliver, with lower division teams rising to the occasion and the unpredictability of sport firmly on display.
