In an exciting match corresponding to the third round of the Apertura Tournament of the Professional Football League, Independiente defeated Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata 2-0, maintaining a perfect score. The goals for Independiente were scored by Paraguayan forward Gabriel Ávalos and Colombian defender Álvaro Angulo.
The first goal of the match came early when Ávalos expertly converted a controversial penalty awarded for a dubious handball in the area. Despite a goal being disallowed for offside, Independiente maintained their lead until Angulo sealed the match with a goal in the 36th minute of the second half, capitalizing on a defensive error by Gimnasia.
While Independiente dominated the first half, Gimnasia reacted in the second half, leveling the game and generating scoring opportunities that were thwarted by the outstanding interventions of goalkeeper Rodrigo Rey, who became the standout player of the match.
The victory places Independiente at the top of Group B with nine points from three matches, in stark contrast to Gimnasia's situation, which has yet to score any points or goals this tournament. In the next match, Independiente will visit River Plate, while Gimnasia will face Godoy Cruz.
The match was marked by the expulsion of Santiago Villarreal from Gimnasia when the outcome was already decided, leaving the La Plata team with one less player on the field. Independiente's victory solidifies their strong performance in the tournament and positions them as one of the title contenders.
