In Rosario, Independiente loses 2-1 to Newell’s due to goals from Éver Banega, from a penalty, and Juan Manuel García; Alexis Canelo discounted. El Rojo was obliged to add to consolidate its position in the qualification positions for international cups, but fell to a Leprosy team in crisis. The match, corresponding to date 24 of the Professional League, was played at the Coloso Marcelo Bielsa stadium, and featured controversial refereeing by Andrés Merlos, who was rebuked by the visiting players.
The match was marked by a controversial play that raised doubts about the validity of Newell’s second goal. The moment of discord occurred at the beginning of the second half, after a rebound off Juan Manuel García, the ball slowly headed towards the goal defended by Rodrigo Rey, Independiente goalkeeper. Despite his effort to clear the ball, initial footage left doubt as to whether the ball had completely crossed the goal line before being cleared.
The assistant referee validated the goal, and the VAR quickly confirmed the decision, allowing Newell’s to increase its lead on the scoreboard. This goal was crucial for the home team, which had already opened the scoring in the first minute of the match thanks to a penalty converted by Éver Banega. The penalty was awarded after referee Andrés Merlos reviewed a foul by Damián Pérez on Mateo Silvetti after the intervention of the VAR.
El Rojo had just beaten Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata 1-0 in Avellaneda thanks to a goal from Joaquín Laso and is currently qualifying for the 2025 Copa Sudamericana. Those led by Julio Vaccari accumulate 56 points in the annual table and continue three behind Huracán (59), remaining far from the Libertadores zone, which has Vélez, Racing and Estudiantes, and Talleres and River as classified Plate (for now) within the international competition (both with 63). Boca Juniors is lurking with 60 units.
As for Leprosy, the situation was worrying, since the red and black team had just lost 3-2 at home against Central Córdoba of Santiago del Estero and this result (fourth consecutive defeat) led to the resignation of Ricardo Lunari. Mariano Soso began his cycle at the head of the team, but against Independiente Gabriel del Vale Medina led the team on an interim basis.
Newell’s has just 24 points in the Professional League and is in 25th place, barely surpassing the line of Banfield (23), Sarmiento de Junín (21) and Barracas Central (20). The victory for the Rosario team allowed the internal spirits to calm down and the public said goodbye to their team with applause.
Regarding what is coming up for the teams on the next date, Independiente will host Central Córdoba in the Libertadores de América (Sunday, December 1 at 5 p.m.) and Newell’s will visit Atlético Tucumán on Monday the 2nd, at 10 p.m.
Trainings:
Stadium: Coloso Marcelo Bielsa.
Referee: Andrés Merlos.
VAR: Fernando Espinoza.
TV: ESPN Premium.
THE PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE POSITION TABLE:
THE ANNUAL TABLE OF THE PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE:
**Given the heated atmosphere and controversial officiating, what measures could be implemented to ensure fair play and prevent player confrontations in future Rosario Clasico matches?**
## World Today News: Rosario Clasico Post-Match Interview
**Welcome back to World Today News.** We’re here today to discuss the electrifying Rosario Clasico between Newell’s Old Boys and Independiente. Joining us are Juan Cruz, a devoted Independiente supporter, and Maria Rodriguez, a passionate Newell’s fan. Welcome both.
**Section 1: The Match Outcome & Controversy**
* Juan Cruz, Independiente entered this match needing a win. How are you feeling after the 2-1 loss? What went wrong for El Rojo?
* Maria, after four consecutive losses, Newell’s desperately needed a win. How significant is this victory for the team and the fans?
* The second goal scored by Newell’s was shrouded in controversy. Juan Cruz, what are your thoughts on the legitimacy of the goal? Do you think the decision should have been overturned by VAR?
* Maria, from your perspective, did the referee make the right call? How important was this goal in securing the win for Newell’s?
**Section 2: Team Positions & Performance**
* Juan Cruz, Independiente remains in the running for a Copa Sudamericana spot. What are your expectations for the team moving forward? Do you think they can secure a spot in international competition?
* Maria, with Ricardo Lunari departing, how do you see Mariano Soso’s coaching change impacting Newell’s performance? Can this win serve as a turning point for the team?
* Both teams faced distinct challenges heading into this match. Juan Cruz, how would you assess Independiente’s overall performance this season?
* Maria, Newell’s sits near the bottom of the league table. What needs to change for the team to climb up the standings?
**Section 3: The Bickering Players & The Future**
* The article mentions players from both teams frustrated with the referee’s decisions. Juan Cruz, what are your thoughts on the level of officiating in this match?
* Maria, do you agree that the officiating was biased? How important is it for referees to maintain impartiality throughout a heated match like the Rosario Clasico?
* Both, looking ahead to the impending matches, what are your predictions for Independiente and Newell’s next games?
**Closing Remarks**
Thanks, Juan Cruz and Maria, for providing your insightful perspectives on this thrilling clash. The Rosario Clasico certainly delivered on its promise of passion and controversy, leaving fans with much to talk about as the season progresses. We appreciate your time and hope to see you again soon.
