The Liga Profesional Championship reached its thrilling conclusion on December 16, 2024, as Vélez Sarsfield secured the title, triumphing 2-0 over Huracán at the Estadio José Amalfitani. This victory marked the club's 17th championship title, revitalizing their storied history after more than a decade since their last trophy.
The final match day was filled with suspense, particularly for Talleres, who were also eyeing the coveted title as they faced Newell’s Old Boys at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium. The stakes were high for both teams, as Vélez needed to win to secure the championship, and Talleres required nothing less than victory coupled with some luck from their rivals.
Newell's Old Boys started strong against Talleres, generating immediate threats, highlighted by moments of brilliance from their goalkeeper Guido Herrera. Just minutes after kickoff, Augusto Schott had his shot blocked heroically. Talleres, responding with their own chances, had Matías Esquivel's attempt saved, showcasing the intensity of the match.
Throughout the first half, both teams pressed for dominance, yet it was Vélez's match against Huracán at the same time which held sway over Talleres’ aspirations. News of Vélez's first goal reached the players and fans in Córdoba, dampening the spirits of Talleres supporters. By halftime, Vélez extended their lead to 2-0, leading to growing anxiety for Talleres who now faced tremendous pressure.
Meanwhile, the second half saw Talleres attempt to rally with substitutions intended to bolster their attack. They controlled possession but struggled to convert opportunities. The tide shifted dramatically when Newell's countered effectively, scoring the opening goal through Francisco González just 14 minutes after the start of the half. This was not long before Sebastian Palacios equalized for Talleres, igniting hope among their fans.
This hope was short-lived, as Newell's quickly responded, regaining the lead with Agustín Juárez's header. Late game desperation ensued for Talleres, culminating with Newell's sealing their victory with another goal from Juan Manuel García, bringing the match to 3-1.
With both matches concluded, the dream was over for Talleres. They finished the season with 48 points but failed to overcome the higher goal differential held by Vélez. The defeat left them lamenting what could have been, having been so close to their first league title.
Vélez, on the other hand, celebrated their well-deserved championship after overcoming earlier disappointments, including their loss in the Copa Argentina final. Fans rejoiced as they gathered to share the moment, impressed by the dominance they displayed on the final match day.
Vélez’s success was pivotal not just for their trophy tally but also for the affirmation of their status within Argentine football after enduring years of struggle. The triumph signifies not merely the end of the Liga Profesional season but also highlights the vivid competitive spirit integral to the sport, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement of league play.
Looking back on the season, the outstanding performances from various teams, especially from Talleres and Huracán striving for glory, created undercurrents of tension and excitement throughout the final games. Newell's ability to impact the title race, acting as both the challengers and the spoilers, adds to the complexity of the story as fans absorb the season gone by.
Reflecting on Vélez's historic win and Talleres' near miss, fans will cherish the memories of this dramatic championship race. The culmination of their efforts during the season sent ripples through the stadiums and revealed the passionate nature of Argentine football. With the 2024 Liga Profesional season now decided, the anticipation for what’s to come next year is already brewing.
