Football in Argentina is not just about River Plate and Boca Juniors. Though it feels that way at the moment. With extensive coverage of the incidents that led to the postponement of the second leg of the Copa Libertadores final. But there are many clubs in the Greater Buenos Aires area. One of the less heralded, Defensa y Justicia are the only unbeaten club in the Argentine Superliga. A visit to their stadium is a far cry from River’s El Monumental.
Defensa y Justicia: Invincible So Far
Not Only River and Boca
Take the train from Constitucion station out to the south of the city centre for about an hour. And you pass through some very poor areas or barrios. Defensa’s stadium location has that edgy feel.
As usual, there is a sizeable police presence even though no visiting fans are allowed entry. As has been the case for league games in Argentina for some years.
The ground itself comprises basic open seating and terraces and can probably only hold around 10,000 fans. But those that do attend make plenty of noise.
Excellent on the Pitch
But on the pitch, Defensa y Justicia are performing. The ‘Hawks’ as they are known met Tigre on a mild night in late November and they would triumph 2-1.
An early goal from the highly regarded Paraguayan Matias Rojas set them on their way. And though the visitors would equalise the home side clinched victory ten minutes from time.
Two factors certainly helped. Firstly Tigre had two men dismissed, the second for a dangerous tackle. And secondly, an error by the away goalie contributed to the facile winning goal.
International Competition
Which meant Defensa y Justicia remained undefeated and they consolidated in third place. After playing in the Copa Sudamericana (the equivalent of the Europa League) last season they are now on schedule for a place in the prestigious Libertadores.
Visiting their stadium is a world away from the likes of River or Boca but this team in yellow and green is certainly on the way up.
Main Image Credit:
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