Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Argentine Primera División match.
Neither Tigre nor Defensa y Justicia can be satisfied with their performances this season. Defensa y Justicia have only recently climbed off the bottom of the table, while the hosts of the upcoming match have drifted away from the top 8. Nevertheless, bookmakers have picked Tigre as the favourites for this clash.
Tigre
In 21 rounds of the championship, Tigre have scored 25 goals, which is the best record in the bottom half of the table. At their home ground, the team have been unbeaten since late summer, managing 10 goals and securing 9 points over their last 5 home matches. Against the tournament leaders Velez (0:1), they didn't lag in terms of chances, with both teams recording two shots on target.
Defensa y Justicia
Defensa y Justicia have shown marked improvement in results since early October, but their defensive issues remain. Last round, they were the first team to concede 30 goals, holding the third-worst goal difference in the tournament (-11). On the road, they have earned just 5 points from 11 matches, ranking third from the bottom and conceding 22 goals—no other team in the league has allowed more than 16 away goals.
Tigre vs Defensa y Justicia Prediction
Tigre's quality attack should exploit the unreliable defence of the underdogs. After a brief surge, Defensa y Justicia will likely appear exhausted and have very little chance of even securing a draw.
