Rosario Central is preparing to receive Corinthians in the Copa Libertadores. Former striker Carlos Tévez has warned about the complicated atmosphere in the Gigante de Arroyito. "Playing in Argentina at their place will be complicated. The stadium is a cauldron, like La Bombonera for pressure, or even more. They will have difficulties. That is where Corinthians need to toughen up, otherwise they will have problems playing away in Rosario," said Tévez in an interview with ESPN during the World Cup.
The Gigante de Arroyito has a capacity of around 47,000 spectators, although international capacities can be reduced under Conmebol safety protocols. Despite this, Rosario Central usually attracts between 35,000 and 41,000 spectators at home. Another threat for the Argentines is Ángel Di María, former teammate of Tévez in the national team. "They really have great players. I know Garro well, I have spoken with him, and I think he is doing very well. He knows Rosario Central well, and it is up to him to explain to those around him what that stadium is like," said Tévez.
Rodrigo Garro comes from the Newell's Old Boys youth academy, rivals of Rosario Central in the city. Corinthians completed their final training session for the match at Newell's training center on Wednesday.
Tévez had a brief stint at Corinthians, where he scored 46 goals and won the Brazilian title in 2005 in 78 appearances. Now, at 42 years old, he is a coach and has been out of work since May after leaving Talleres.
The second leg will be played on August 20 in Itaquera at 21:30. If the aggregate score is level, the winner will be decided by penalties.
Currently, Rosario Central is in 8th place in the Liga Profesional Argentina with 7 points, 2 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in 4 games. In the last matchday, they defeated Aldosivi 2-1. In their last series of matches, they have won 3 consecutive games and are on a 3-game winning streak.
Their next fixture is on August 16 at home against Barracas Central, who are in 3rd place in the table.
