Belgrano vs Defensores de Belgrano: prediction, H2H and probable lineups - 28.06.2025
On Friday evening, Belgrano from Córdoba will face Defensores de Belgrano on neutral ground in the Round of 32 of the Argentine Cup. Here’s my pick for the outcome of this clash at attractive odds.
Match preview
El Celeste delivered a confident performance in the first round of the Cup, defeating Real Pilar 3-1, with all goals scored before half-time. That allowed them to avoid a repeat of last year’s fiasco, when they crashed out early to a lesser opponent. If Belgrano wins again, it would mark their third appearance in the Round of 16 in the past four years.
However, their league form raises questions: three consecutive matches without a win, and only two goals scored in that stretch. Zielinski’s team creates chances but rarely finishes them off, even after taking the lead. Still, whenever Belgrano manages to score twice in a match, the outcome is usually positive.
Defe pulled off a real shock in the first round, knocking out Primera side Barracas Central (2-0). It was a composed and precise performance: organized defense, minimal errors, and clinical finishing. But since then, their form has plummeted—six matches without a win and poor scoring output, never more than one goal per game.
In the Primera Nacional, Carlos Mayor’s squad sits mid-table, with the attack clearly struggling. In the past two months, Defensores have scored in the first half just once, and often lose momentum afterward. Yet, they actually look livelier away from home: three of their last four wins have come on the road.
Probable lineups
- Belgrano: Vicentini – Compagnucci, Troilo, Leguizamón, Grillo – Maviglia, Longo, Quiñón – Zelarayán – Nicolás Fernández, Jara
- Defensores de Belgrano: Medina – Gamarra, Rodríguez, Masaccesi, Segovia, Correa – Benítez, Gutiérrez, Mendoza – Aguirre, Pons
Match facts and head-to-head
- Belgrano has not lost at the Round of 32 stage of the Argentine Cup since 2019.
- Defensores are winless in their last six matches in all competitions.
- The only previous head-to-head between these teams was in 2017, when Belgrano won on penalties.
Prediction
Defensores have grit and an organized defense, but in attack they rely too much on opponents’ mistakes. Belgrano not only has quality but also the experience of playing decisive matches at this stage. With proper focus, they should get the job done—especially if they score first and keep control. The game might be tight, but class should make the difference. Our pick: Belgrano to win at odds of 1.80.
