VAR played a decisive role in the 1-1 draw between Rosario Central and Newell's Old Boys at the Estadio Gigante de Arroyito this weekend. Newell's striker Matías Cóccaro scored the equalising goal after a lengthy review overturned an initial offside flag, as reported by Argentine outlet Ole.
Eduardo Kudelka's side was looking for three points to improve their league standing, where they currently sit seventh with 11 points. Their record of 3 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses from 7 games leaves them 5 points behind leaders Argentinos Juniors. Central's last outing was a 2-1 defeat to Gimnasia La Plata on August 29, and their recent form shows 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 losses in their last five matches.
How did the goal-scoring play develop?
The attacking move started with a long ball from the Rosario Central defence towards Juan Ignacio Ramírez. The Central player managed to evade his markers and played a through pass into the box. Matías Cóccaro, timing his run, broke free from his defender and found himself alone in front of goal.
The Newell's forward deftly beat goalkeeper Jeremías Ledesma and also defender Agustín Ovando, who attempted a last-ditch cover, to slot the ball into the net. Immediately, assistant referee Miguel Savorani raised his flag for offside, sparking instant protests from the visiting team.
What did the VAR review determine?
Referee Yael Falcón Pérez was informed by the VAR team, led by Lucas Novelli, that he should review the play on the pitchside monitor. After several minutes of analysis, the on-field decision was overturned. The footage showed that Ramírez had remained in a legal position at the moment of the pass, allowing Cóccaro's goal to stand.
This technological intervention completely changed the atmosphere inside the Gigante. For Rosario Central, which had shown solid defensive performance until that moment with only 7 goals conceded this season, the setback was a hard blow. The team has scored 8 goals in the championship, maintaining a positive goal difference of +1.
What is Rosario Central's context in the league?
The draw adds another point to Central's inconsistent campaign, which now features two matches without a win. Finding consistency is important before their next challenge, an away trip to face Tigre on September 13. Tigre currently sits fifth in the standings, promising a tough fixture.
Fans can follow the team's progress and check full squad details on our squad page. Every point will be valuable in the tight battle for positions in the Liga Profesional.
The next away fixture against Tigre is scheduled for Sunday, September 13.
