Analysis The numbers behind the result
Rosario Central edge tight contest despite lower xG and possession
Rosario Central's 1-0 victory over Argentinos JRS was slightly against the run of play, with the home side posting a lower xG (0.78 vs 0.40) and just 40% possession. However, they were more clinical in key moments, converting one of their 12 shots (6 on target) compared to Argentinos' 11 attempts (3 on target). The decisive moment came in the 42nd minute when I. Ovando scored from a V. Pizarro assist - one of Central's 10 shots from inside the box showing their more direct approach.
Argentinos JRS dominated the ball (60% possession) and created more corners (9 vs 5), but struggled to break down Central's compact shape, with only 2 of their 9 shots inside the box testing the goalkeeper. The visitors' high pass accuracy (88% vs 75%) didn't translate into high-quality chances, as shown by their lower xG. Central's defensive discipline was key, limiting Argentinos to just 0.40 xG despite their territorial dominance. The telling stat was Rosario's superior shot conversion - they scored from their only big chance while Argentinos failed to capitalize on their possession advantage.