The Argentine Liga Profesional de Fútbol rolls into Matchday 1 with a heavyweight showdown as Argentinos Juniors host Boca Juniors on July 13 at the iconic Estadio Diego Armando Maradona in Buenos Aires. This all-Juniors clash is much more than just a fixture between city rivals; it’s a litmus test for both teams as they aim to start the Clausura on the right foot.
Form Check: Inconsistencies and Signs of Promise
Argentinos Juniors come into this clash showing signs of balance but not brilliance. With three wins, one draw, and a single loss in their last five matches, the team has displayed defensive resilience and tactical discipline, particularly at home. Although their outstanding performance in the Apertura was stained by their fall in the Playoffs Quarterfinals, El Bicho’s performance was commendable. Moreover, they managed to bounce back in the Copa Argentina a week later, beating Excursionistas.
On the other side, Boca Juniors’ recent participation in the FIFA Club World Cup was not fruitful despite showing courage against the elite of the sport. Eventually, they were knocked out in the group stage with two draws and a loss. Also eliminated in the Primera LPF Apertura Quarterfinals before they travelled to US for the CWC, Azul y Oro form consists of a victory, 2 ties, and two defeats in their last 5 appearances in all competitions.
Historical Edge vs Present-Day Challenges
Historically, Boca Juniors have had the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of their last five meetings with Argentinos. However, recent trends suggest this matchup could be more balanced than the past would indicate. The odds for a home win are at @2.23; the away victory is offered at @3.8, with a draw paying @2.95.
Update
With no action from either side since we wrote the preview for the match a week ago, Argentinos Juniors have capitalized on this pause to bring in Hernán López Muñoz, Diego Maradona’s great-nephew. This addition to the offensive line will bring more power to the already fierce El Bicho attack. However, Boca Juniors have their talisman in the likes of Miguel Merentiel and the sensational veteran Edinson Cavani.
As Buenos Aires braces for this dramatic clash, the bookmakers have stood their ground, with their offers for the 1X2 market unchanged so far. Though the hosts have a small margin to collect the 3 points, we still believe this can go either way. Thus, we see value in exploring the Over/Under market with enticing odds.
Though their last three H2H encounters ended with less than two goals scored (0-1, 1-0, and 0-0, respectively), each team’s last three matches had a minimum of two goals behind the net. That said, we suggest you follow our lead by opening an account at the best betting platform and place your bet on Over 2 goals!