Argentine Liga Profesional Opener: Independiente Rivadavia Hosts Atlético Tucumán Seeking a Strong Start

Match Background & Qualification Scenarios

The 2026 Liga Profesional de Fútbol season commences on January 22, 2026, inaugurating a new football calendar in Argentina. The season's format comprises two tournaments, Torneo Apertura and Torneo Clausura, each with five stages. Thirty participating teams are divided into two groups of fifteen, competing in a single round-robin format within their groups, supplemented by two inter-zone matches. The top eight teams from each group will advance to the knockout stages. For Independiente Rivadavia, this match is their league opener, following their triumph in the 2025 Copa Argentina, which secured them a spot in the 2026 Copa Libertadores. The team is riding a wave of confidence and aims to carry their momentum into the top flight. Visiting side Atlético Tucumán is equally keen to start strong, laying a solid foundation for their season. Relegation will be reinstated in 2026, with two teams facing demotion based on coefficient rankings and overall aggregate table positions, emphasizing the critical importance of every point gained.

Recent Form

Independiente Rivadavia has demonstrated consistent form leading into the new season, recording three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five official matches. Their recent results include a 2-0 victory against CA Estudiantes on January 18, 2026, and a 0-0 draw with Central Cordoba on November 10, 2025. They also secured penalty shootout wins against Argentinos Juniors (after a 2-2 draw on November 5, 2025) and River Plate (following a 0-0 draw on October 24, 2025). Their sole defeat came on November 1, 2025, a 1-3 loss to Aldosivi. Atlético Tucumán's recent record stands at three wins and two losses in their last five official outings. They achieved 2-1 victories against Progreso on January 15, 2026, and Cerro Largo on January 12, 2026. However, they suffered a 1-3 loss to Lanus on November 14, 2025, despite previously overcoming Godoy Cruz with a 2-1 win on November 9, 2025. Their other loss was a 0-3 defeat to Independiente on November 1, 2025.

Key Players & Injury News

For Independiente Rivadavia, forward Alex Arce has already demonstrated his scoring prowess in early 2026 matches, posing a significant threat in attack. Defender Juan Manuel Elordi stands out for his assists, providing a crucial source of creativity for the team. Other players to watch include Sheyko Studer, Gonzalo Ríos, and Sebastián Villa. Atlético Tucumán has strengthened their squad with the confirmed arrival of experienced right-back Lionel Di Plácido, marking their first significant signing for the 2026 season. His presence is expected to bolster both defensive solidity and wide play. Midfielder Guillermo Acosta and forward Leandro Díaz are also key figures who will play pivotal roles for the team. As of now, no significant new injuries have been reported for either side, suggesting both teams are likely to field relatively full-strength squads.