Match Centre

The 1-1 draw flattered Newells Old Boys, who were bailed out by an Ignacio Isla own goal against the run of play. Union Santa Fe's superior chance creation (1.21 xG to 0.38) and shot volume (12 total attempts, 5 on target vs Newells' 6 and 2) made them the more deserving side. Juan Pablo Ludueña's 59th-minute opener — assisted by Marcelo Estigarribia — capped a period where Union consistently pierced Newells' high-possession but low-efficacy system (61% possession translated to just 2 shots on goal).

Despite Union's defensive discipline (4 yellow cards), Newells' equaliser came via a rare lapse — Isla turning the ball into his own net in the 76th minute. Union's goalkeeper made just 2 saves to Newells' 4, underlining the away side's superior shot quality. The decisive stat was Union's +0.83 xG differential — they created three times Newells' expected goals but were punished by one moment of misfortune.