The race for playoff spots in Argentina’s 2026 Torneo Apertura is heating up as Matchday 13 gets underway. Although the full slate of matches is available through various premium packages, two contests will be broadcast on ESPN’s standard cable offering, providing wider access for fans. This weekend’s action promises pivotal clashes as teams vie for positioning in the league table.
On Saturday, Aldosivi will host Estudiantes de Río Cuarto, with coverage beginning at 13:30 local time. Then, on Monday, Argentinos Juniors welcomes Banfield for a match scheduled to start at 19:00. Both of these games will be available on ESPN in addition to premium sports packages.
The matchday began on Wednesday with a contest between Lanús and Platense, broadcast on TNT Sports Premium. Thursday’s schedule features Barracas Central against Sarmiento at 15:00, as well on ESPN Premium, followed by Tigre versus Independiente Rivadavia at 17:30 on TNT Sports Premium. Later that evening, Talleres hosts Boca in a key matchup at 20:30, available on ESPN Premium.
Friday’s action includes a match between Gimnasia de Mendoza and Vélez at 15:00, shown on TNT Sports Premium. Following that, Unión takes on Deportivo Riestra at 17:15, also on TNT Sports Premium. The evening concludes with San Lorenzo hosting Estudiantes de La Plata at 19:30, broadcast on ESPN Premium. A highly anticipated classic between Independiente and Racing will follow, airing on both ESPN Premium and TNT Sports Premium.
Saturday night sees Rosario Central clash with Atlético Tucumán on TNT Sports Premium at 21:00. Sunday’s schedule includes Gimnasia against Huracán, broadcast on ESPN Premium at 15:30, and River Plate welcoming Belgrano at 18:00 on TNT Sports Premium. Central Córdoba will then face Newell’s at 20:30, also on TNT Sports Premium.
The final match of Matchday 13 takes place on Monday, with Instituto hosting Defensa y Justicia at 21:15 on TNT Sports Premium. This completes a crucial round of fixtures as teams jockey for position in the Apertura playoff race.
The Apertura 2026 season is reaching a critical stage, and these matches will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the final standings. Fans can follow the action on ESPN and TNT Sports Premium, depending on the specific game. For those following the league closely, understanding the broadcast schedule is key to staying up-to-date with the developing drama.
As the season progresses, the standings are becoming increasingly tight. According to recent results, Independiente Rivadavia and River Plate currently lead the table with 23 points, followed closely by Argentinos Juniors with 20. Banfield currently sits 13th with 13 points, and Estudiantes de Río Cuarto is near the bottom with only 4 points. These standings highlight the importance of every match as teams strive to climb the table and secure a playoff berth.
The upcoming clash between Argentinos Juniors and Banfield on Monday evening is particularly noteworthy. Argentinos Juniors, currently in strong playoff contention, will be looking to solidify their position against a Banfield side needing points to climb out of the mid-table congestion. The match promises tactical intrigue and a high level of competition.
Fans eager to follow the league’s progress can find updated standings and schedules on ESPN’s website and through other sports news outlets. The Apertura 2026 season is shaping up to be a thrilling competition, and Matchday 13 promises to deliver more excitement, and drama.
Next up, the focus shifts to the continuation of Matchday 13 with the remaining fixtures throughout the week. Fans can stay informed about the latest results and schedule updates by visiting ESPN’s official website or tuning into the broadcasts on ESPN and TNT Sports Premium. Be sure to check local listings for exact broadcast times in your region.
