Overview
- Gabriel Ávalos headed in Facundo Zabala’s cross around the 28th minute to give Independiente a 1-0 win in Avellaneda.
- Ariel Holan deployed a mixed lineup to manage minutes, resting Ángel Di María, Alejo Véliz and Emanuel Coronel due to yellow-card risk.
- Referee Sebastián Zunino expelled Malcorra after a post-game fracas, with Rodrigo Fernández Cedrés also sent off.
- Goalkeeper Rodrigo Rey made several key stops to preserve Independiente’s lead, including late chances for Central.
- Rosario Central still finishes first in Group B and moves into next weekend’s round of 16, while Independiente keeps a remote, results-dependent route to the Sudamericana.