Analysis The numbers behind the result
Newells dominate possession but lack cutting edge in low-xG win
Newells Old Boys' 2-0 victory over Deportivo Riestra was statistically peculiar, with the hosts registering zero shots (on or off target) yet scoring twice – a rare case of clinical finishing defying expected goals (xG) data. While Newells monopolised possession (87%) and completed 92% of their 13 total passes, they failed to translate this dominance into clear chances (0.00 xG). Riestra, despite just 13% possession, created the game's only two measurable opportunities (1 shot on target, 0.30 xG).
The decisive moments came from Facundo Guch, who broke the deadlock in the 67th minute before assisting Walter Mazzantti's 85th-minute clincher. Newells' efficiency in front of goal (2 goals from 0 xG) masked underlying issues in chance creation, while Riestra's defensive approach limited them to a single blocked shot. The key stat? Newells' 87% possession yielded zero shots from open play – an extreme example of sterile dominance.