Overview

• Newell’s secured a 1-1 draw with Defensa y Justicia in Florencio Varela using an entirely alternate XI and conceded an equalizer after taking an early lead.
• Cristian Fabbiani labeled the match “like a practice” to assess tactical cohesion and squad depth following his decision to field starters in the Copa Argentina earlier in the week.
• Defensa y Justicia midfielder César Pérez criticized the choice to play reserves, calling it disrespectful and expressing frustration over the perceived slight.
• Newell’s coaching staff is evaluating Martín Fernández, David Sotelo and debutant Gaspar Iñíguez to fill the midfield void left by Regiardo’s two-match suspension.
• Rosario Central arrives at the derby unbeaten and inside qualification spots in the Clausura, heightening the importance of a strong performance from Newell’s.