The eighth round of the Torneo Apertura brings one of Argentina’s most passionate rivalries: the Rosario derby. On Sunday afternoon, Newell’s Old Boys will host Rosario Central at the Marcelo Bielsa Stadium in a match that promises intensity, emotion, and a packed crowd. While the visitors arrive in better form, the hosts are desperate to turn their season around and give their fans something to celebrate in this crucial fixture.

Newell’s Old Boys: Searching for a Turning Point

It has been a difficult start to the campaign for Newell’s Old Boys. The team sits 15th in the Liga Profesional de Fútbol standings and remains winless after seven matches, with a record of 0 wins, 2 draws, and 5 defeats. Their most recent outing ended in a 0-2 loss against Estudiantes on February 25, a result that deepened their struggles and left them fighting to escape the lower end of the table.

Offensively, the “Lepra” have struggled to find consistency, averaging just 0.7 goals scored per game while conceding around 2.0 goals. In their last five matches, they have managed only one draw and four defeats, scoring an average of 0.6 goals and conceding 2.2. These numbers highlight the team’s lack of balance and the urgent need to improve both in attack and defense.

Another worrying trend is their inability to start games strongly. Newell’s Old Boys have failed to lead at half time in 24 of their last 25 matches, including 23 of their last 24 league fixtures. This slow start often forces them to chase games, a pattern that has cost them valuable points. Facing their city rivals, they will need to show greater determination and efficiency if they want to end a long winless streak in this derby.

Rosario Central: Confidence and Consistency

In contrast, Rosario Central approach this clash in solid form. They currently occupy 4th place in the league and come off an impressive 1-2 away victory over Gimnasia La Plata on February 25. Their season record of 3 wins, 2 draws, and 2 defeats reflects a balanced and competitive side that has been particularly effective on the road, where they remain unbeaten so far.

Statistically, the “Canalla” have been one of the most disciplined teams in the competition. They average 1.1 goals scored and 0.9 conceded per match, showing a strong defensive structure complemented by efficient finishing. In their last five games, they have recorded three wins, one draw, and only one defeat, scoring 1.4 goals per game while conceding just 0.6.

Rosario Central’s matches tend to be tight affairs. Under 3.5 goals have been scored in each of their last 11 matches, and in most of those games, at least one team failed to score in the second half. This pattern suggests a cautious approach, especially in away fixtures, where they often prioritize defensive solidity. Historically, they have also dominated this rivalry, winning the last five head-to-head encounters and keeping their unbeaten run at Newell’s ground since 2008.

Head-to-Head and Key Trends

• Last meeting: Rosario Central 1-0 Newell’s Old Boys (August 23, 2025).


• Head-to-head record: Newell’s Old Boys 0 wins, 0 draws, 5 defeats.


• Average goals in these matches: Newell’s 0.2 scored, 1.2 conceded.


• Under 2.5 goals has occurred in 64% of recent matches involving these teams.


• Both Teams To Score – No has been the outcome in 58% of their recent fixtures.

These numbers underline the dominance of Rosario Central in recent derbies and the low-scoring nature of their encounters. For Newell’s, breaking this negative trend would not only bring three points but also a huge morale boost for the rest of the season.

Newell’s Old Boys vs Rosario Central Prediction and Analysis

Everything points to a tense and tactical battle at the Marcelo Bielsa Stadium. Newell’s Old Boys will rely on home support to overcome their poor form, but their lack of attacking efficiency remains a major concern. On the other hand, Rosario Central arrive with confidence, a solid defense, and a recent history that favors them in this rivalry.

Given the statistical trends, a low-scoring match seems likely. Both teams have shown limited offensive output in recent weeks, and the visitors’ defensive discipline could once again dictate the rhythm of the game. The emotional weight of the derby might lead to a cautious start, with few clear chances and a strong emphasis on avoiding mistakes.

BetMines prediction: Both Teams To Score – No with 58% probability.