Juventud Antoniana 3–1 Tucumán Central
Estadio Fray Honoratto Pistoia, Salta – 13 July 2026
ARFC – Primera División – Matchday 14

Match Overview

Juventud Antoniana continued their impressive run in the ARFC Primera División with a convincing 3–1 victory over Tucumán Central at home. The Salta-based side dominated proceedings and secured three points that move them closer to the top of the table, while Tucumán Central’s struggles on the road continue.

First-Half Control

Juventud Antoniana took the lead in the 11th minute when veteran striker Luis “Chaco” Giménez headed home from a free kick. The home side doubled their advantage before the break: a swift counter-attack ended with Martín Villalba curling a shot into the top corner from the edge of the area. Tucumán Central barely threatened and went into the interval fortunate to be only two goals down.

Second Half: Sealing the Win

Juventud Antoniana made it 3–0 in the 67th minute after a defensive error allowed Emmanuel Toledo to tap in from close range. Tucumán Central pulled one back eight minutes later through a long-range effort from Juan Cruz Ferreira, but the comeback never materialised. The hosts managed the game professionally, seeing out the final stages without undue alarm.

Tactical Observations

• Juventud’s midfield dominance – Controlled the tempo and won the second balls consistently.
• Tucumán’s defensive lapses – Caught out of position on all three goals, particularly on set pieces.
• Width usage – Juventud’s wingers stretched the play and created space for central runs.

Standout Players

• Luis Giménez (Juventud Antoniana) – Still sharp at 34, leading the line brilliantly with a goal and an assist.
• Martín Villalba (Juventud Antoniana) – A stunning strike to double the lead.
• Juan Cruz Ferreira (Tucumán Central) – Took his goal well, but lacked support.

Season Context

The victory lifts Juventud Antoniana to 4th in the ARFC standings with 26 points, just three behind leaders Racing de Córdoba. Tucumán Central remain in 12th place with 16 points and now face a crucial stretch of fixtures against direct relegation rivals. Manager Diego Saravia will need to shore up a defence that has conceded 20 goals in 14 matches.