Prepare for an epic midfield battle, folks, as we have Newell's Old Boys going head-to-head with Independiente Rivadavia. If history gets any say in the matter (and usually she has quite the voice), this clash is as evenly-matched as a pair of identical twin sumo wrestlers. Their prior engagement mirrored a staring contest, ending in a riveting 0-0 draw.
Switching gears to their regular season records, Independiente has been the more consistent of the two chariots in this race, boasting more wins, fewer losses, and just barely lagging behind in draws. This. Is. Close. Think sardines in a can close.
Recently, Independiente have been strutting around like peacocks in mating season, having been victorious in all of their last five matches. This hot streak includes impressively silencing the roar of the Tigers, and paddling past River Plate.
Now, don't count out the Old Boys just yet - even though they might need to reach for their reading glasses more often. A gutsy win against Talleres does wonders for the old ticker. However, the sting of recent losses - one to Boca Juniors and (take a wincing breath) Central Córdoba, still linger.
Despite the recent performance of our dear Old Boys, remember, sports are as predictable as a toddler on a sugar rush. Now, considering the fine-form of the Independiente squad, I might lean towards the boys from Mendoza, but then again, there's wanting to keep my job, so...
Albert’s Prediction: Draw