Independiente beats Estudiantes 2-0 in Clausura opener

Independiente defeated Estudiantes 2-0 in La Plata on the first matchday of the 2026 Torneo Clausura, with goals from Gabriel Ávalos and Santiago Montiel. The result was shaped by a dramatic sequence midway through the second half: a saved penalty by goalkeeper Rodrigo Rey followed moments later by a defensive blunder that sealed the win Source: Clarín.

Match-deciding moments

Ávalos opened the scoring in the 76th minute, heading in a precise cross from Montiel Source: Clarín. Estudiantes had a chance to equalize when referee Pablo Dóvalo awarded a penalty for a foul on Brian Aguirre. Guido Carrillo stepped up, but Rey saved the low shot to his right Source: Infobae.

Just after the penalty, a mix-up between defender Ramiro Funes Mori and goalkeeper Fernando Muslera gave Montiel an easy tap-in. Sources differ on the play's origin: Clarín reports Funes Mori attempted a quick free kick back to Muslera, while Infobae describes it as a throw-in. Both agree the pass was short and Montiel pounced to make it 2–0 Source: Clarín; Infobae. Funes Mori was substituted shortly after and jeered by the home crowd Source: Infobae.

Key takeaways

• Rodrigo Rey's penalty save kept Independiente in front at a crucial moment Source: Clarín.
• Santiago Montiel was involved in both goals (assist and goal) Source: lavozar.
• The victory gives Independiente a strong start to the Clausura campaign.