Independiente
Independiente claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Deportivo Riestra in the Liga Profesional Argentina Clausura Round 16, with Felipe Tempone’s 87th-minute winner sending the Estadio Libertadores de América into raptures after Alexander Díaz had threatened to steal a point for the visitors.
Independiente Strike Early Through Pérez Curci
The hosts started brightly and were rewarded in the 11th minute when Mateo Pérez Curci latched onto Josias Palais’ clever pass and slotted past Riestra keeper Iván Arce. Independiente’s early dominance was reflected in their 52% possession and 10 total shots in the first half.
Riestra Fight Back After Goitia Red Alert
Riestra’s task grew harder when Jonathan Goitia was booked for a rash challenge in the 30th minute and immediately substituted by manager Gabriel Benítez. But the visitors regrouped, outshooting Independiente 7-4 in the second half.
Díaz Denies Independiente Before Tempone Heroics
The visitors’ persistence paid off in the 86th minute when substitute Alexander Díaz fired home Tomás González’s cut-back to stun the home crowd. But their joy was short-lived as Felipe Tempone, himself a substitute, rifled in Juan Fedorco’s pass just 60 seconds later to restore Independiente’s lead and spark wild celebrations.
What This Result Means
Independiente’s hard-fought win keeps their Clausura title hopes alive and sends a message to their rivals. For Riestra, it’s a crushing blow after their spirited fightback, leaving them rooted in the lower half of the table. Both teams will look to build momentum when the Clausura resumes next weekend.
Key Moments
11′ ⚽ Independiente — Mateo Pérez Curci (assist: Josias Palais)
86′ ⚽ Deportivo Riestra — Alexander Díaz (assist: Tomás González)
87′ ⚽ Independiente — Felipe Tempone (assist: Juan Fedorco)
