The Independiente team achieved a resounding victory with a score of 3-0 over Vélez in the framework of the fifth round of the Apertura Tournament of the Professional Football League. The match took place at the Libertadores de América - Ricardo Enrique Bochini stadium, and with this result, Independiente climbed to the top position in Zone B.
Gabriel Ávalos was responsible for scoring two goals for the "Rojo," at the 32nd and 43rd minutes of the first half, while Luciano Cabral completed the rout with another goal at the 33rd minute of the second half. After this victory, the team led by Julio Vaccari regained the lead in Group B with 12 points, having temporarily relinquished this position after the defeat against River.
In contrast, Vélez deepened its difficult situation by accumulating its fourth defeat in the Apertura Tournament, remaining in fourteenth place with just 1 point due to a previous draw against San Lorenzo. The next challenge for the team will be to face Godoy Cruz in search of earning points for the first time in the championship.
Regarding the development of the match, in the first half, Independiente took the initiative and generated several goal opportunities, highlighted by the arrivals of Lautaro Millán and Luciano Cabral. Despite the intervention of goalkeeper Tomás Marchiori to keep his goal intact, Independiente managed to open the scoring with a goal from Ávalos after a rebound in the area.
The end of the first half saw Independiente extend its lead with a goal from Ávalos after a precise cross from Sporle. In the second half, Vélez reacted by improving its play and generating danger in the rival area, but Independiente managed to maintain its defensive solidity and seal the match with a goal from Cabral, who scored with a precise shot in the corner.
Thus, Independiente took the three important points that allowed them to return to the top spot in Zone B, taking advantage of the draw between Rosario Central and Deportivo Riestra in another match of the day.
