Belgrano beats Argentinos Juniors on penalties to set Apertura final against River Plate
Belgrano de Córdoba advanced to the 2026 Apertura final after a dramatic 4‑3 penalty shoot‑out win over Argentinos Juniors. The tie ended 1‑1 in regular time, with Nicolás “Uvita” Fernández equalising for Belgrano in the dying moments of the match. The shoot‑out saw goalkeeper Thiago Cardozo make a decisive save and Ramiro Hernandes convert the winning spot‑kick.
The victory secures a showdown on 24 May at the Mario Alberto Kempes stadium, where Belgrano will face River Plate for the championship and a direct Libertadores 2027 berth. Coach Ricardo Zielinski recalled the club’s 2011 promotion‑relegation saga, calling the upcoming clash “a final that reminds us of good moments”. Defender Cristian “Cuti” Romero announced he will travel from England to support the team.
River Plate enters the final with a setback: injuries to Gonzalo Montiel, Sebastián Driussi and Aníbal Moreno, confirmed after their 1‑0 semi‑final win over Rosario Central. The absences have raised concerns for both River’s title chances and the players’ availability for Argentina’s World Cup squad.
The match will also mark Belgrano’s first appearance in a national final since its historic promotion, drawing large local interest and a high‑stakes atmosphere in Córdoba.