Patronato face a test of character in Villa Crespo, need to pick up points | OneFootball

Rubén Darío Forestello’s team closes out the third round of the Primera Nacional with an urgent need to earn points and improve its collective performance. With key absences and the return of Agustín Araujo, the “Patrón” faces a tough test in a difficult venue.

In the final match of the third round of the Primera Nacional, Patronato will face a high-stakes challenge this Monday when they visit Atlanta at 21:00 at the León Kolbovski stadium. With Gastón Monsón Brizuela officiating, the team from Entre Ríos arrives in Villa Crespo with the pressing need to earn points and get back on track in Zone B of the tournament.

The start of the championship has been inconsistent for the “Patrón.” After a promising debut, showing defensive solidity in a draw against San Martín de Tucumán as visitors, the team suffered a tough setback at the Presbítero Bartolomé Grella against Gimnasia y Tiro de Salta. That defeat set off alarm bells within the club, raising doubts about the team’s collective performance and lack of attacking play.

Despite the criticism, Rubén Darío Forestello remains firm in his tactical convictions and will not change the system of five defenders, four midfielders, and a single striker. For the coach, this structure is what guarantees the necessary balance, although for this match he is considering various changes in personnel to gain more presence in the midfield and improve defensive coverage.

The starting eleven features several question marks, heightened by the unexpected absences of Maxi Rueda and Facundo Heredia. Both players, who had been key during preseason and the start of the tournament, were left out of the squad due to different physical issues reported by the club. In this scenario, there are openings at left back, where Santiago Piccioni and Bartolomé Velásquez are competing for a spot, as well as in the central midfield.

The good news for Forestello is the recovery of Agustín Araujo, who is available again and could become a player who alters the usual formation. His possible inclusion puts the presence of Juan Barinaga, Fede Bravo, or Brandón Cortés in doubt. Likewise, it is still undecided who will partner Franco Soldano in attack, with the contest open between Pereyra and Araujo himself. Ultimately, Patronato will seek in Buenos Aires a victory that provides the emotional and footballing stability needed to be a contender in the division.

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