Belgrano claim three points in Córdoba

Rosario Central suffered a 2-1 defeat to Belgrano in Matchday 1 of the 2026 Argentine top-flight at Estadio Julio César Villagra. The Canalla, fresh from a 1-2 loss at Gimnasia L.P. on February 25, 2026, dominated in the second half but paid the price for a defensive lapse in stoppage time.

How the game unfolded

Belgrano struck first at the 35-minute mark through Uvita Fernández. The Pirata crafted a flowing move from deep, with Mudo Vázquez threading a pass into the box that left the forward unmarked to slot past Jeremías Ledesma. Central, who finished 11th in the 2024 Copa de la Liga Profesional with 15 points (4W-3D-7L in 14 games and a DLLLW run-in), pushed hard after the interval.

Julián Fernández equalized at the 32-minute mark from a corner. VAR initially disallowed the goal for offside, but the review overturned the call. Belgrano, however, sealed the win with a thunderous left-footer from Francisco González Metilli two minutes from time.

Canalla still hunting their first points

With this result, Rosario Central has now lost five of its last five matches (form: WLLLL). The side managed by Miguel Ángel Russo, which in 2026 has scored 10 goals and conceded 18 (goal difference -8), now turns its attention to Tuesday’s home clash with Academia at El Gigante de Arroyito.

Central must secure their first three points of the season to steady the ship after a shaky start. The next fixture is critical as the club fights to escape the lower reaches of the table.

What’s next for the Canalla

Belgrano, meanwhile, heads to Tigre on Wednesday with three points in hand. The Pirata aim to build on their strong start, while Rosario Central must react quickly to avoid slipping further down the standings.

The Canalla, averaging 1.4 goals scored and 2.5 conceded in 2026, face a tough run of fixtures. Tuesday’s home date with Academia could set the tone for the season ahead.