Atlético Tucumán under pressure, missing key player at Monumental | OneFootball

Atlético Tucumán will face a key challenge this Tuesday night at the start of the 2026 Apertura Tournament, when they host Central Córdoba of Santiago del Estero at the Monumental José Fierro, starting at 10:15 p.m., for the second interzonal matchday. The Decano comes in needing to change course after a disappointing debut and will look to rely on their fans to earn their first points in the competition.

The debut left more doubts than certainties. Hugo Colace’s team lost 2-1 to Independiente Rivadavia in a match marked by interruptions, a storm, a power outage, and a goal that sparked strong protests because there was never clear confirmation that the ball had fully crossed the line. Beyond the result, the defeat extended a negative away streak and forced a quick recalibration, as the new objective is to become strong at home and show a more solid version.

In that context, bad news emerged. Ramiro Ruiz Rodríguez, who left at halftime in Mendoza, underwent tests that confirmed a meniscus injury in his right knee. The forward will be out of action for several weeks, an absence that directly impacts the coaching staff’s initial plans. His intensity, mobility, and versatility had made him an important option in the attacking scheme.

Looking ahead to the clash against the Ferroviario, Colace will have to decide who fills that vacant spot, with Franco Nicola and Martín Benítez as the main alternatives, each with different characteristics. Beyond the specific choice, the absence has reignited the debate about the squad’s attacking depth, just as the schedule starts to tighten. Atlético will try to provide an immediate response on the pitch, knowing that the margin for error at home is minimal from the start of the tournament. With a special twist: on the other side will be Lucas Pusineri as coach of the “Ferroviario” in a context where his departure was messy and aimed at the club’s directors. The Interzonal will be hotter than ever.

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