Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Argentine Primera División match.
Before a brief international break, Vélez Sarsfield have the opportunity to pull ahead of Atlético Huracán in the title race. On their visit to Deportivo Riestra, who are on a run of three consecutive draws, the league leaders will prioritize defense, as they have been able to reliably counter most opponents.
Deportivo Riestra
Following a goalless draw with Platense (0:0), Deportivo Riestra remain in mid-table, trailing River Plate in the top four by six points. At home, they have racked up 26 points out of a possible 30, conceding just 7 goals in 11 home matches, the sixth-best in the competition. Over the past month, Deportivo Riestra have never hit a total over 2.5 goals in four matches in a row, and both of their November encounters have ended without a single goal.
Vélez Sarsfield
Vélez Sarsfield lead the league, tied on points with Atlético Huracán (both with 42) but ahead on tie-breakers. Over the last 10 matches, they have conceded only six goals, with only Platense and Independiente, both with five, boasting tighter defenses. Against Tigre (1:0), the team struggled to break down a not-so-strong opponent, managing only two shots on target and relying on an own goal by their opponent in the closing stages.
Deportivo Riestra vs Vélez Sarsfield Prediction
These defensively focused teams are not likely to take risks in their head-to-head encounter. Deportivo Riestra and Vélez Sarsfield will keep the spectators on edge but won't create many scoring chances.
