Madelón’s side eye repeat of 1998 heroics v Independiente | OneFootball

The national football schedule experienced an unexpected alteration due to the strike called by the AFA, a measure that led to the total suspension of activities in all categories. In this context of enforced pause, Unión is already focused on its next challenge: a high-risk visit to Independiente. This clash, framed in the final stretch of the Apertura Tournament, presents itself as a direct and vital confrontation for the aspirations of the team led by Leonardo Madelón. Currently, the «Tatengue» occupies the third position in Zone A with 14 points, just one point above the «Rojo», who are lurking in fourth place with 13.

Although the match is scheduled for next Tuesday at 19:45, the outlook regarding the starting lineup seems clear. Madelón would not make changes to the initial team, betting on the continuity of an eleven that is on a positive streak. After a start to the tournament with ups and downs, the team managed to straighten its path by chaining three consecutive victories against Aldosivi, Sarmiento, and Instituto, adding a solidity they will seek to confirm against the «King of Cups».

However, the challenge for Unión transcends strictly tactical matters, as they will have to face an overwhelming historical weight at the Estadio Libertadores de América – Ricardo Enrique Bochini. The recent history in Avellaneda is elusive for the Santa Fe club: the last time the «Rojiblanco» managed to leave victorious from that venue was 28 years ago, at the end of the last century.

That last celebration dates back to November 6, 1998, on the 14th matchday of the Apertura Tournament. On that day, played at the old «Doble Visera», the team then led by Mario Nicasio Zanabria won 1-0 thanks to a goal by Martín Perezlindo. The team that broke the streak for the last time lined up as: Cavallero; Donnet, Trotta, Biaggioni, Moner; Bourdier, Vera, Olivera, Cabrol; Perezlindo and Gigena.

With the momentum of their three consecutive victories and a present that positions them expectantly in the table, the team from Avenida will attempt to make this Tuesday finally the day history turns around. The mission is clear: maintain the upward performance and conquer a venue that, for almost three decades, has been impregnable.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.