Newell’s Finds Lifeline With 3-1 Win Over Central Córdoba in Santiago del Estero

In a season defined by desperation and a grueling climb from the bottom of the standings, Newell’s secured a vital 3-1 victory over Central Córdoba (SE) on Sunday, April 5, 2026. The match, held at the Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades, provided a necessary breath of air for a team that had been reeling from a series of setbacks.

For the visitors, this result represents more than just three points in the Torneo Apertura. Coming into the match, the “Lepra” were battered, sitting last in Zona A and second to last in the annual table, while still nursing the sting of a Copa Argentina elimination at the hands of Acassuso. However, a tactical gamble by manager Frank Darío Kudelka turned the tide in Santiago del Estero, marking the club’s second consecutive win in the Liga Profesional.

Tactical Gambles Pay Off

Kudelka entered the match with a clear plan to disrupt the status quo. In a move that surprised observers, he shifted Salcedo—traditionally a center-back—to right-back and handed a first-time start to Franco García. The decision paid immediate dividends.

The planning translated into a goal just 10 minutes into the first half. Salcedo drove forward with a significant burst of pace down the flank, delivering a precise pass into the center for García. With the Central Córdoba defense caught sleeping, García finished clinically to make it 1-0, providing immediate relief for the visiting side.

Newell’s maintained their momentum, capitalizing on their efficiency in front of goal. In the 40th minute, Russo persisted with a play that seemed dead, sending a cross into the box that found Oscar Salomón. Salomón outmuscled defender Alejandro Maciel to head home the second goal, doubling the lead before the break.

Chaos for the Ferroviario

While Newell’s found their rhythm, Central Córdoba’s evening spiraled into a series of misfortunes. Manager Lucas Pusineri had deployed a 5-3-2 formation, featuring Alan Aguerre in goal and a defensive line comprising Santiago Moyano, Juan Pablo Pignani, Alejandro Maciel, Facundo Mansilla, and Diego Barrera.

The tactical structure collapsed under the weight of two critical events. First, goalkeeper Aguerre suffered an injury, forcing the introduction of Vallejos. Shortly before the halftime whistle, the situation worsened when Juan Pablo Pignani was shown a direct red card by referee Mastrángelo following a high-footed challenge on Franco García.

Entering the second half with 10 men and a goalkeeper change, Central Córdoba appeared defeated, but the “Ferroviario” found a second wind. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Pusineri’s side began to push forward, utilizing substitutions to regain some control of the midfield.

The Second Half Struggle

The second half saw a shift in momentum as Newell’s emerged from the locker room sluggish. Central Córdoba capitalized on this lapse in concentration. In the 18th minute of the second period, a foul in the area allowed Diego Barrera to strike a powerful shot, cutting the deficit to 2-1.

For a significant stretch of the match, the momentum swung entirely toward the home side. Central Córdoba pressured the Newell’s defense, filling the penalty area and creating several dangerous opportunities. The clinical efficiency Newell’s displayed in the first half vanished, leaving the match open for a potential comeback.

However, Francisco Scarpeccio stepped up to extinguish the fire. In the 50th minute of the second half, Scarpeccio fired a decisive shot to make it 3-1. Scarpeccio was named the figure of the match, finishing the night with one goal and two shots on target.

By the Numbers: Match Breakdown

The disparity in effectiveness between the two halves tells the story of the game. Newell’s dominated the early stages through strategic personnel changes, while Central Córdoba’s resilience in the second half was undermined by their early red card.

Implications for the Apertura

This victory serves as a critical turning point for Newell’s in their fight to distance themselves from the relegation zone. The combination of Kudelka’s tactical flexibility and the individual brilliance of players like Scarpeccio and García suggests a shift in confidence for a squad that had previously struggled for consistency.

For Central Córdoba, the loss highlights defensive frailties and the heavy cost of disciplinary lapses. Despite a spirited effort with 10 men, the inability to maintain defensive discipline in the first half proved insurmountable.

Newell’s will seem to carry this momentum forward as they continue their campaign in the Torneo Apertura, hoping to turn these sporadic wins into a sustainable climb up the league table.

Check back for official updates on the league standings and upcoming fixtures for both clubs.