Dramatic Finish in Primera División Clash
Rosario Central clinched a dramatic 2-1 victory over Vélez Sarsfield in an Argentine Primera División match held on Saturday, October 12, 2025. The decisive goal came from a penalty in the 97th minute, scored by Ignacio Malcorra, securing three crucial points for the visitors at the Estadio José Amalfitani in Buenos Aires.
First Half Action and Equalizer
The match saw an early breakthrough for Rosario Central when Alejo Véliz found the back of the net in the 16th minute, giving his team the lead. However, Vélez Sarsfield responded in the second half, with Manuel Lanzini leveling the score at 1-1 in the 50th minute. The game remained tightly contested, setting the stage for a tense conclusion.
Late Penalty Decides Outcome
As the match entered stoppage time, a critical moment unfolded. Following a foul by Vélez Sarsfield's Elias Gomez on Emanuel Coronel inside the penalty box, and subsequent review by the VAR, a penalty was awarded to Rosario Central. Ignacio Malcorra stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick in the 97th minute, putting Rosario Central ahead 2-1. The drama continued shortly after, as Vélez Sarsfield's Rodrigo Aliendro received a red card in the 100th minute, reducing his team to ten men.
Context and Tributes
The fixture was part of the Argentine Primera División Clausura tournament. Before kickoff, a moment of silence was observed in memory of Miguel Ángel Russo, a respected coach who had managed both Rosario Central and Vélez Sarsfield during his career, and who passed away recently. This victory allows Rosario Central to strengthen its position in the league standings, maintaining an undefeated run in the tournament.
5 Comments
Fuerza
The drama was undeniable, making for a thrilling finish. However, you have to question the amount of stoppage time added and how a single controversial call can overshadow an entire match.
Manolo Noriega
The tribute to Miguel Ángel Russo was a classy touch before the game. But the dramatic and controversial ending, with the late penalty and red card, unfortunately overshadowed that moment of respect.
Fuerza
While the penalty call seemed correct after VAR, it's always tough for a game to be decided like that in the final moments. Vélez must feel hard done by.
Ongania
It was a fantastic show of nerve by Malcorra to convert the penalty under pressure. Still, one can't help but feel for Vélez, who fought hard and saw their efforts undone by a single late decision.
Fuerza
Another game ruined by VAR. Vélez was robbed!