Overview

• Ángel Di María’s late free-kick sealed a 1-0 win over Newell’s on August 23 at the Gigante de Arroyito, extending his impactful return to Rosario Central.
• Former referees Miguel Ángel Scime and Héctor Baldassi said the wall‑distance issue raised by critics falls under referee interpretation and did not warrant annulling the goal.
• In a press conference, Di María dismissed talk of preferential treatment and Saturday scheduling, joked that he does not call Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia, and argued Central’s recent penalties were correctly awarded.
• He described Argentine football as more physical and relentless than in Europe but said he feels well adapted, with three goals in six matches since rejoining.
• Teammate Ignacio Malcorra noted rivals’ tight marking of Di María and recounted a pregame exchange about free-kicks before the veteran struck the derby winner.