Clausura 2026: Playoffs take shape as key matches loom

The Torneo Clausura 2026 entered its decisive phase with the start of Matchday 14, as teams battle for playoff spots and international cup qualification. Instituto is the first team to secure a place in the knockout stage Source: La Voz del Interior.

Friday results

Three matches were played on Friday, October 23. Gimnasia La Plata defeated Sarmiento 2-0 with goals from Ignacio Fernández and Franco Torres, moving to 25 points and third place in Zone B Source: lavozar. Platense came from behind to beat Gimnasia Mendoza 2-1, with Juan Gauto and Bruno Sepúlveda scoring in the second half Source: clarin. Atlético Tucumán won 1-0 away at Tigre thanks to a goal by Ramiro Ruiz Rodríguez Source: lavozar.

Playoff picture

With three matchdays remaining, the playoff bracket is taking shape. Instituto leads Zone A with 29 points, while Argentinos Juniors and Rosario Central share the top of Zone B with 25 points each Source: La Voz del Interior. The projected round-of-16 matchups include Instituto vs. Huracán and Boca vs. Barracas Central Source: La Voz del Interior. Talleres has already been eliminated from playoff contention Source: La Voz del Interior.

Annual table and international spots

Boca Juniors and Argentinos Juniors lead the annual table with 54 points each, followed by Rosario Central and Independiente Rivadavia with 53 Source: clarin. The top three in the annual table qualify for the Copa Libertadores 2027, while positions 4-9 enter the Copa Sudamericana. Belgrano has already secured a Libertadores spot as Apertura champion Source: Infobae. River Plate sits with 49 points, needing a strong finish to secure continental qualification Source: Clarín.

What's next

Matchday 14 continues with key fixtures including Talleres vs. Defensa y Justicia, Independiente vs. Boca Juniors, and River Plate vs. Racing Club Source: Infobae. The playoffs are scheduled to begin the weekend of November 22, with the final set for December 12 in La Plata Source: La Voz del Interior.