Analysis The numbers behind the result
Defensa Y Justicia's clinical edge trumps Belgrano's wasteful dominance
Defensa Y Justicia's 2-1 away win slightly flattered them on xG (1.25 vs Belgrano's 1.26), but their ruthlessness in transition justified the result. Despite Belgrano dominating 68% possession and outshooting Defensa 25-9 (6-3 on target), they paid for wastefulness - managing just 42% of their total shots from inside the box versus Defensa's 33%. C. Perez's 12th-minute opener and D. Fernandez's 47th-minute strike (both from open play) proved decisive, capitalising on Belgrano's high line while containing their early pressure.
Belgrano's lifeline came via R. Hernandes' 59th-minute finish (assisted by L. Passerini), but their late barrage (11 blocked shots, 8 corners) couldn't breach Defensa's compact shape. The visitors' 74% pass accuracy in their defensive third (vs Belgrano's 54% final-third accuracy) showed superior composure under pressure. The difference-maker: Defensa converted 22% of their total shots compared to Belgrano's 4% - a disparity that defined this counterattacking masterclass.