Newells Old Boys
Newells Old Boys Dominate Deportivo Riestra in Clausura Clash
Newells Old Boys cemented their Clausura credentials with a commanding 2-0 victory over Deportivo Riestra in the Liga Profesional Argentina’s fifth round, masterminded by Facundo Guch’s creative brilliance under the Marcelo Bielsa stand lights. The Lepers suffocated their opponents with 87% possession – a league record this season – turning the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa into a red-and-black cauldron of mounting pressure.
Guch Breaks Riestra’s Resistance
For 67 minutes, Riestra’s five-man defence bent but didn’t break – until Guch struck. The playmaker danced past Carlos Quintana (already booked for scything him down in the 41st minute) before lashing past Ignacio Arce via a deflection. Mario Ortega, whose halftime introduction had tilted the game, claimed the assist. Riestra’s resistance had lasted 185 touches longer than their expected goals suggested they deserved.
Mazzantti’s Late Exclamation Point
Walter Mazzantti put the outcome beyond doubt five minutes from time, finishing a flowing 22-pass move started and assisted by Guch. The striker’s third goal in five Clausura games came just 104 seconds before being substituted – a ruthless cameo that left Gustavo Benitez’s side stranded on zero shots in the second half.
What This Means For Both Sides
For Newells, this was a statement win that propels them into the Clausura’s upper echelons while maintaining Lucas Bernardi’s 100% home record. Riestra – who saw Facundo Mino and Quintana booked in a first half where they committed seven of their eight fouls – remain winless on the road. They face Velez next, while Newells’ slick-passing machine (92% accuracy) travels to Talleres with Guch in the form of his life.
Key Moments
67′ ⚽ Newells Old Boys — F. Guch (assist: M. Ortega)
85′ ⚽ Newells Old Boys — W. Mazzantti (assist: F. Guch)
