The new round of the Argentine Liga Profesional de Fútbol brings an intriguing midweek clash between Newell’s Old Boys and Estudiantes. The match promises to be a test of resilience for the home side, who are struggling to find form, while the visitors arrive as one of the most consistent teams in the competition so far. With both clubs at opposite ends of the table, this encounter could have a significant impact on their early-season trajectories.

Newell’s Old Boys: Searching for Stability

Newell’s Old Boys enter this fixture in a difficult moment. Their recent 3-0 defeat against Banfield on February 21 extended a worrying run of six league matches without a win. Over that period, they have recorded 0 victories, 2 draws, and 4 defeats, averaging just 0.8 goals scored per game while conceding 2.0. These numbers underline the team’s current struggles at both ends of the pitch.

In addition, the Rosario-based side has shown a clear pattern of slow starts. They have failed to win at half time in 23 of their last 24 matches, and in the Liga Profesional de Fútbol specifically, they have not led at the break in 22 of their last 23 games. Even more concerning, they have lost at half time in 6 of their last 10 league fixtures, suggesting that early defensive lapses often leave them chasing the game.

Currently ranked 15th in the standings, Newell’s need a strong home performance to regain confidence. Their attack has lacked sharpness, and their defensive line has been too easily breached. The fans will expect a reaction, especially against one of the league’s top performers.

Estudiantes: Consistency and Defensive Solidity

Estudiantes travel to Rosario in excellent form and full of confidence. Their most recent outing ended in a 1-0 victory over Sarmiento on February 20, extending their unbeaten start to the season. Over their last five matches, they have collected 3 wins and 2 draws, scoring an average of 0.8 goals per game while conceding just 0.2. This defensive record is among the best in the competition and has been the foundation of their success.

Currently sitting top of the table, Estudiantes have built their campaign on discipline and tactical balance. Their matches tend to be tight and low-scoring: Under 3.5 goals have been recorded in 24 of their last 25 games, and Under 2.5 goals in their last 11 away fixtures in the league. Moreover, at least one team has failed to score at half time in each of their last 31 matches, a statistic that highlights their ability to control the tempo early on.

On the road, the team has been particularly solid. They have kept a clean sheet in 2 of their last 3 away matches this season and have conceded very few chances overall. Their defensive organization and patience in possession make them a difficult opponent for any side, especially one struggling for rhythm like Newell’s.

Head-to-Head and Tactical Overview

The recent history between these two sides favors Estudiantes. In their last five meetings, Newell’s have failed to win, with a record of 0 victories, 2 draws, and 3 defeats. The most recent encounter ended 1-1 on September 30, 2025, a result that reflected the visitors’ defensive resilience and the hosts’ inability to capitalize on home advantage.

Given the current form of both teams, this match is likely to follow a similar pattern. Estudiantes will aim to impose their structured style, focusing on compact defending and efficient transitions, while Newell’s Old Boys will look to break their scoring drought and avoid early setbacks. The home side’s main challenge will be to find creativity in the final third against one of the most disciplined defenses in the league.

With Under 3.5 goals recorded in nearly all of Estudiantes’ recent fixtures and Newell’s struggling to score, a low-scoring contest seems probable. The visitors’ unbeaten run and defensive consistency make them slight favorites, but the pressure on Newell’s to respond could add intensity to the encounter.

BetMines Prediction: Newell’s Old Boys vs Estudiantes

BetMines prediction: Estudiantes win (2) with a 41% probability. The draw is estimated at 31%, while a home victory for Newell’s stands at 28%. Considering the visitors’ defensive record and the hosts’ offensive struggles, the away side appears better positioned to extend their unbeaten streak.