Rosario Central will host Sarmiento in an exciting clash in the Argentine Primera Division on Saturday.
Here's an in-depth look at the teams' form, predictions, news, and potential lineups.
Match Preview
On Friday, Sarmiento will challenge Rosario Central at Estadio Gigante de Arroyito, aiming to hand the hosts their first home defeat in the second phase of the 2024 Argentine Primera Division.
Rosario Central, managed by Miguel Angel Russo, extended their unbeaten run to four games with a 1-1 draw against Godoy Cruz last week.
Sarmiento, under the guidance of Israel Damonte, comes into this match on the back of consecutive wins, most recently defeating Estudiantes 2-0.
Recent Form
Rosario Central
Rosario Central has struggled to convert early leads into victories.
Despite going ahead early against Godoy Cruz, they had to settle for a draw, marking the third time in the second phase they failed to win after scoring first.
Their recent home form includes three consecutive draws. Rosario sits 15th in the table but is just three points shy of 7th place, currently held by River Plate.
Recent Results
Rosario Central 1-1 Godoy Cruz
Rosario Central 1-0 Instituto
Rosario Central 2-2 Independiente
Sarmiento
Sarmiento has shown improved defensive stability, conceding a goal or fewer in 11 of their last 13 matches.
Their recent form has lifted them nine points above the relegation zone, and a win on Friday could match their longest winning streak since 2022.
Recent Results
Sarmiento 2-0 Estudiantes
Sarmiento 1-0 Huracan
Sarmiento 0-1 Racing Club
Team News
Rosario Central
Rosario Central might miss Abel Hernandez due to a thigh issue, while Tomas O'Connor is sidelined with a hernia injury.
Enzo Copetti, who scored in their last match, will be key to their attacking efforts.
Possible Starting XI: Broun; D. Martinez, Mallo, Quintana, Rodriguez; Coronel, Ortiz, Ibarra, Campaz; Ruben, Copetti
Sarmiento
Sarmiento will likely retain the lineup that secured victory over Estudiantes, with Emanuel Hernandez and Juan Guasone expected to start.
Gabriel Gudino, who scored the winning goal, will be crucial.
Possible Starting XI: Acosta; Lopez, Hernandez, Guasone, Paredes, Arismendi; Godoy, Mendez, Manuel Garcia, Gudino; Gho
Prediction
Although Sarmiento's recent form is promising, Rosario Central's home advantage and resilience make them slight favourites.
Sarmiento's defensive discipline will be tested against Rosario's attack.
Sarmiento 
Rosario 
