Acassuso vs San Telmo: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Saturday, 18 July 2026 by Steve
Acassuso vs San Telmo
Argentina Primera Nacional Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
â San Telmo vs. Acassuso en vivo: seguĂ el partido minuto a minuto - TyC Sports
The upcoming Primera Nacional clash between Acassuso and San Telmo promises to be a tightly contested affair at Estadio La Quema on Sunday, July 20, 2026. Both clubs find themselves in the lower half of the Zona A table, with Acassuso sitting in 15th place on 19 points from 20 matches, while San Telmo occupies 14th position with 20 points from the same number of games. This encounter represents a critical opportunity for both sides to gain ground in the fiercely competitive Argentine second division, where every point carries enormous weight in the battle to avoid the relegation playoff zone. The match kicks off at 18:00 UTC (15:00 local time) and will be broadcast live on LPF Play in Argentina, with streaming options available through TyC Sports Play for international viewers.
Acassuso enters this fixture following a disappointing 2-3 defeat away at Racing de CĂłrdoba on July 12, extending their winless run and leaving head coach TobĂas Kohan under increasing pressure to turn results around. The Quemeros have managed just one victory in their last five outings, scoring six goals while conceding nine during that stretch. Their home form at Estadio La Quema has been marginally better, with four wins from nine home fixtures this campaign, though defensive vulnerabilities remain a persistent concern. For San Telmo, the picture is similarly bleak â they suffered a 1-3 home defeat to CA Chaco For Ever in their most recent outing and have won only one of their last five matches, with two goalless draws highlighting their struggles in front of goal.
Historically, these two Buenos Aires Province clubs have enjoyed a remarkably balanced rivalry. Across 15 all-time meetings, Acassuso holds a narrow edge with seven wins to San Telmo's six, with just two draws in the entire series. However, the recent trend favors tighter, lower-scoring encounters, making this fixture particularly interesting from a betting perspective. With both teams desperate for points and neither showing consistent attacking prowess, the stage is set for what could be a cagey, tactical battle rather than an open, goal-filled spectacle. Fans and bettors alike should expect a match defined by defensive organization, midfield battles, and few clear-cut chances.
Tactical Preview
Acassuso le ganĂł a San Telmo por 3-2 y mantiene el puntaje perfecto en la Primera Nacional 2026 - Agencia Noticias Argentinas
Formation & Key Matchups
Acassuso (4-4-2)
Under head coach TobĂas Kohan, Acassuso has predominantly lined up in a traditional 4-4-2 formation, emphasizing compact defensive shape and quick transitions through the wide areas. The back four, marshalled by veteran centre-back NicolĂĄs Stepanovitch and the experienced Santiago Bellatti, tends to sit deep, inviting pressure before looking to release the pace of wide forwards LĂĄzaro Romero and Ramiro Reynoso on the counter-attack. The midfield double pivot of AgustĂn Hermoso and Kevin Dubini provides defensive cover but has struggled to control possession against technically superior opponents. Acassuso's tactical approach relies heavily on set-pieces and crosses into the box, where target man Juan Ignacio Quattrocchi offers a physical presence. However, their inability to sustain attacking pressure has been a recurring theme this season, with the team averaging just 0.89 goals per game at home. The full-backs, Lucas Pioli and Ălex Ruiz, provide width but often leave spaces in behind that opponents have exploited.
San Telmo (4-2-3-1)
Marcelo VĂĄzquez has favoured a 4-2-3-1 system for San Telmo, designed to provide defensive solidity through the double pivot of ElĂas BrĂtez and Facundo Tello, while allowing the attacking midfield trio of Gabriel Paredes, MartĂn Batallini, and IĂąaki Lartirigoyen to support lone striker Franco Tisera. The defensive line, featuring the experienced Facundo Roncaglia and the reliable Leonel Pollacchi, has been reasonably organized, conceding just 0.89 goals per game away from home. San Telmo's tactical identity revolves around patient build-up play, looking to exploit the channels between the opposition full-backs and centre-backs. However, their attacking output has been severely limited, with the team failing to score in 56% of their away fixtures this season. The absence of a genuine creative spark in central areas has often left Tisera isolated, and the team's inability to convert possession into chances remains their most pressing concern.
Critical Vulnerability
Both teams share a common critical vulnerability: a chronic inability to convert chances into goals. Acassuso has failed to score in 56% of their home matches, while San Telmo has drawn a blank in 56% of their away fixtures. This statistical convergence suggests that whichever side can find a moment of individual brilliance or capitalize on a defensive error is likely to decide the outcome. Furthermore, both teams have shown a tendency to concede late goals â Acassuso has shipped goals in the final 15 minutes of matches with alarming regularity, while San Telmo's away record shows similar frailties. The midfield battle will be crucial, with neither side possessing the quality to dominate possession for extended periods. Expect a match characterized by cautious approach play, numerous long balls, and a general reluctance to commit too many players forward.
Team News & Squad Status
Acassuso â ď¸
- Goalkeeper: Mariano Monllor is expected to start between the posts, with Santiago Bogace as backup.
- Defence: NicolĂĄs Stepanovitch and Santiago Bellatti should form the central defensive partnership, with Lucas Pioli and Ălex Ruiz at full-back.
- Midfield: AgustĂn Hermoso and Kevin Dubini are likely to anchor the midfield, with Jonathan Raccio and Nahuel Petillo providing width.
- Attack: Ramiro Reynoso (5 goals this season) leads the line alongside LĂĄzaro Romero, the team's top creator with 4 assists.
- Form: W-D-L-L-D in last 5 matches. One win in last five, scoring 6 and conceding 9.
- Injuries: No major injury concerns reported ahead of this fixture.
- New Signing: Manuel MĂłnaco arrived from Sarmiento and could feature from the bench.
San Telmo â ď¸
- Goalkeeper: JoaquĂn Enrico has been the first-choice keeper, playing every minute of the campaign so far.
- Defence: Facundo Roncaglia and Leonel Pollacchi are expected at centre-back, with Renzo Uriburu and Santiago Formichelli in the full-back positions.
- Midfield: ElĂas BrĂtez and Facundo Tello will likely form the protective double pivot, with Gabriel Paredes operating in the number 10 role.
- Attack: MartĂn Batallini (4 goals this season) and Franco Tisera (2 goals) lead the attacking line, supported by IĂąaki Lartirigoyen on the flank.
- Form: L-D-D-W-L in last 5 matches. One win in last five, scoring 4 and conceding 5.
- Injuries: No significant injury worries heading into this match.
- New Signings: Facundo BĂĄez (Argentinos Juniors), Gabriel Paredes (Aldosivi), and Leonel Miranda (Banfield) have bolstered the squad.
Predicted Lineups
| Acassuso (4-4-2) | San Telmo (4-2-3-1) |
|---|---|
| GK: Mariano Monllor | GK: JoaquĂn Enrico |
| RB: Lucas Pioli | RB: Renzo Uriburu |
| CB: NicolĂĄs Stepanovitch | CB: Facundo Roncaglia |
| CB: Santiago Bellatti | CB: Leonel Pollacchi |
| LB: Ălex Ruiz | LB: Santiago Formichelli |
| RM: Jonathan Raccio | CDM: ElĂas BrĂtez |
| CM: AgustĂn Hermoso | CDM: Facundo Tello |
| CM: Kevin Dubini | RAM: IĂąaki Lartirigoyen |
| LM: Nahuel Petillo | CAM: Gabriel Paredes |
| ST: Ramiro Reynoso | LAM: MartĂn Batallini |
| ST: LĂĄzaro Romero | ST: Franco Tisera |
Head-to-Head Record
The historical rivalry between Acassuso and San Telmo has produced some fascinating encounters over the years, with the overall record remarkably tight. Across 15 all-time meetings in all competitions, Acassuso has emerged victorious on seven occasions, while San Telmo has claimed six wins, leaving just two matches ending in draws. This near-perfect balance underscores just how evenly matched these two Buenos Aires Province clubs have been whenever they have crossed paths. The goal difference also tells a story of tight contests â San Telmo has actually outscored Acassuso 18 goals to 14 across these fixtures, despite winning one fewer game, suggesting that when San Telmo does win, they tend to do so more convincingly. However, recent meetings have trended toward lower-scoring, more tactical battles, with the last five encounters producing an average of just 1.8 goals per game.
In their most recent meeting during the 2026 Primera Nacional campaign, the two sides played out a competitive fixture that highlighted their current struggles. Looking back at their head-to-head history, several patterns emerge that are relevant to this prediction. First, home advantage has proven significant â Acassuso has won four of their seven home meetings with San Telmo, losing just twice at Estadio La Quema. Second, the frequency of draws has been remarkably low (just 13% of all meetings), suggesting that these contests typically produce a winner. However, given both teams' current attacking malaise and defensive priorities, this trend may be bucked on Sunday. The historical data also reveals that 67% of their encounters have finished with under 2.5 goals, aligning perfectly with our prediction for a low-scoring affair. Both teams have managed clean sheets in 44% of their respective home and away records this season, further supporting the case for a goalless draw.
Key Players Comparison
đ´ Acassuso â Ramiro Reynoso
Position: Forward
Season Stats: 5 goals, 0 assists
Key Strength: Predatory finishing inside the box
Threat Level: ââââ
Reynoso has been Acassuso's most reliable source of goals this season, accounting for nearly 30% of the team's total league output. His movement off the ball and ability to find space in crowded penalty areas make him the primary threat San Telmo must neutralize.
đľ San Telmo â MartĂn Batallini
Position: Attacking Midfielder / Forward
Season Stats: 4 goals, 1 assist
Key Strength: Versatile attacking play and set-piece delivery
Threat Level: ââââ
Batallini leads San Telmo's scoring charts and provides the creative spark that has been sorely lacking in their away performances. His ability to operate between the lines and deliver dangerous crosses could be decisive in breaking down Acassuso's defensive block.
đ´ Acassuso â LĂĄzaro Romero
Position: Forward / Winger
Season Stats: 2 goals, 4 assists
Key Strength: Creative playmaking and delivery from wide areas
Threat Level: âââ
Romero is Acassuso's chief creator, leading the team with four assists this campaign. His understanding with Reynoso and ability to beat defenders one-on-one provide the Quemeros with their most potent attacking outlet.
đľ San Telmo â ElĂas BrĂtez
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Season Stats: 0 goals, 2 assists
Key Strength: Ball recovery and distribution from deep
Threat Level: âââ
BrĂtez is the engine room of San Telmo's midfield, leading the team in tackles and interceptions while also contributing two assists. His battle with Acassuso's Hermoso and Dubini in the centre of the park will likely determine which team controls the tempo.
The individual matchups across the pitch will be fascinating to watch, particularly in the attacking third where both teams have struggled for consistency. Reynoso versus Roncaglia promises to be a classic striker-versus-stopper duel, with the experienced Roncaglia needing to use all his 39 years of wisdom to contain the younger, more mobile Reynoso. In midfield, the creative burden falls on Romero and Batallini respectively â whichever player can find pockets of space and deliver quality into the box may well decide the match. However, given both sides' recent form and the high stakes involved, expect caution to prevail over creativity, with neither team willing to risk leaving gaps at the back. For bettors looking at player-specific markets, the anytime goalscorer odds reflect this uncertainty, with Reynoso priced at 2.80 and Batallini at 3.00 â value that suggests bookmakers anticipate a tight, low-scoring contest where individual moments of quality will be at a premium.
The Managers
TobĂas Kohan
TobĂas Kohan took the reins at Acassuso partway through the 2026 season and has faced an uphill battle to stabilize the club's fortunes. In his nine matches in charge, the young Argentine coach has managed a 22% win rate, averaging exactly one point per game â a record that, while modest, represents a slight improvement on the team's overall season trajectory. Kohan's tactical philosophy emphasizes defensive organization and disciplined shape, with his preferred 4-4-2 system designed to make Acassuso difficult to break down rather than expansive in attack. However, this approach has drawn criticism from sections of the fanbase who feel the team lacks ambition, particularly at home where they have failed to capitalize on the support of the La Quema faithful. Kohan's challenge against San Telmo is clear: find a way to unlock a similarly conservative opponent without exposing his own defence to counter-attacks. His decision-making regarding substitutions and in-game adjustments will be scrutinized, as Acassuso has dropped valuable points from winning positions on multiple occasions this season.
The pressure on Kohan is mounting, with Acassuso just one point above the relegation playoff zone. A positive result against San Telmo would provide much-needed breathing room and vindication of his methods, while defeat could see the club slide further into danger and potentially trigger a change in the dugout. The coach will need his key players â particularly Reynoso and Romero â to step up and deliver the kind of performance that has been too infrequent this campaign.
Marcelo VĂĄzquez
Marcelo VĂĄzquez assumed control of San Telmo with the club already in a precarious position, and his 14-match tenure has yielded mixed results. With a 21% win rate and an average of 1.07 points per game, VĂĄzquez has managed to keep San Telmo within touching distance of safety but has yet to inspire the consistent run of form needed to climb the table. His tactical approach mirrors that of his counterpart â conservative, structured, and prioritizing defensive solidity over attacking flair. The 4-2-3-1 formation has provided a solid foundation, with San Telmo conceding fewer goals than many of the teams around them, but the lack of cutting edge in the final third has been a persistent frustration. VĂĄzquez has shown a willingness to shuffle his pack, giving opportunities to new signings like Gabriel Paredes and Facundo BĂĄez, but integrating fresh faces mid-season has proven challenging.
VĂĄzquez faces a similar dilemma to Kohan: how to break down a team that will likely mirror San Telmo's own cautious approach. His reliance on set-pieces and crosses into the box has yielded limited returns, and the absence of a prolific striker has hampered the team's ability to turn draws into wins. The manager's record away from home is particularly concerning â San Telmo has yet to win a single away match this season â and breaking that duck at Estadio La Quema would represent a significant achievement. VĂĄzquez will need his experienced heads, particularly Roncaglia and Batallini, to lead by example if San Telmo are to escape with anything from this fixture.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.65
This is our strongest recommendation for the Acassuso vs San Telmo fixture. The statistical evidence supporting an under 2.5 goals outcome is overwhelming. Both teams have failed to score in 56% of their respective home and away matches this season, and their combined average goals per game sits at just 1.61 â well below the league average of 1.87. The head-to-head history also favors low-scoring encounters, with 67% of their previous meetings finishing with under 2.5 goals. Neither side possesses the attacking quality to break down organized defences consistently, and with both managers prioritizing defensive shape over attacking ambition, a cagey, low-scoring affair is the most probable outcome. At European odds of 1.65, this represents excellent value for a bet that aligns perfectly with the data.
Odds: 3.10
The draw market offers compelling value at 3.10, particularly given the context of this fixture. Both teams are separated by just one point in the table, have identical records in their last five matches (one win each), and share similar tactical approaches that prioritize caution. San Telmo's away form is particularly telling â they have drawn six of their nine away fixtures this season, demonstrating a consistent ability to avoid defeat without winning. Acassuso, meanwhile, has drawn four of their 20 matches overall and will be desperate not to lose at home. With both sides likely to cancel each other out in midfield and neither possessing the individual quality to unlock a compact defence, the stalemate is a highly plausible outcome at generous odds.
Odds: 1.80
The BTTS No market at 1.80 is another strong angle for this match. Acassuso has kept a clean sheet in 44% of their home games, while San Telmo has managed the same in 33% of their away fixtures. More tellingly, both teams have failed to score in 56% of their respective matches, and their combined BTTS rate this season is just 28% â significantly below the league average of 40%. The tactical setups of both teams, with deep defensive lines and cautious midfield pivots, are designed to prevent goals rather than create them. With neither side boasting a prolific striker or creative midfielder capable of unlocking a stubborn defence, the probability of at least one team failing to score is high. This bet offers a solid return for what the data suggests is a likely scenario.
Odds: 6.50
Our headline prediction of a 0-0 draw is supported by a convergence of factors that make this the most likely correct score outcome. Both teams have recorded goalless draws in 18-33% of their matches this season, and their combined attacking output is among the lowest in the division. Acassuso averages just 0.89 goals per game at home, while San Telmo manages a paltry 0.56 goals per game away from home. The head-to-head record also features several 0-0 draws, and with both managers under pressure to avoid defeat rather than chase victory, a cautious approach is inevitable. At odds of 6.50, the 0-0 correct score offers attractive returns for bettors willing to back the data-driven prediction. Consider staking a smaller amount here as part of a diversified betting strategy.
Odds: 2.05
For those seeking a speculative angle with reasonable odds, the half-time draw market at 2.05 presents an intriguing option. Both teams have been involved in goalless first halves with remarkable frequency â Acassuso's home matches have featured a first-half draw in 67% of cases, while San Telmo's away fixtures have done the same in 56% of instances. The tactical nature of this encounter, with both sides likely to spend the opening 45 minutes sizing each other up and avoiding early mistakes, strongly suggests a cagey first half. Neither team has shown a propensity for fast starts, with Acassuso scoring just 44% of their goals in the first half and San Telmo managing only 22% before the break. The half-time draw at 2.05 offers a solid standalone bet or can be combined with other selections in an accumulator for enhanced returns.
đ Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction of a 0-0 draw is the culmination of extensive statistical analysis, tactical assessment, and consideration of the psychological factors at play in this Primera Nacional fixture. Both Acassuso and San Telmo enter the match in poor form, with identical records of one win in their last five outings, and both managers are under significant pressure to avoid defeat. The tactical setups employed by TobĂas Kohan and Marcelo VĂĄzquez prioritize defensive organization over attacking ambition, and neither side possesses the individual quality or creative spark to unlock a compact, well-drilled defence. Acassuso's home record shows they have failed to score in 56% of their matches at Estadio La Quema, while San Telmo's away form is even more concerning â they have not won a single away game this season and have drawn a blank in 56% of their travels. The head-to-head history, while typically producing a winner, has seen a recent trend toward tighter, lower-scoring encounters, and the current context of both teams fighting to avoid the relegation zone makes caution the overriding priority.
From a betting perspective, the 0-0 prediction aligns with multiple value markets. The under 2.5 goals selection at 1.65 is our best pick, supported by both teams' chronic inability to find the net and their defensive priorities. The draw at 3.10 and BTTS No at 1.80 both offer compelling value for those seeking slightly higher returns, while the correct score 0-0 at 6.50 provides an attractive speculative angle for smaller stakes. As always, we recommend consulting our daily betting tips and banker selections for additional guidance, and practicing responsible bankroll management when placing wagers on this or any other fixture.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Low Scoring Trend: Both teams average just 1.61 goals per game combined â well below the Primera Nacional average of 1.87. This is one of the lowest-scoring matchups in the division.
- Home vs Away Form: Acassuso has won 4 of 9 home games this season, while San Telmo has won 0 of 9 away games. San Telmo has drawn 6 of their 9 away fixtures.
- Clean Sheet Probability: Acassuso has kept clean sheets in 44% of home matches; San Telmo has done so in 33% of away games. Both teams prioritize defensive solidity.
- Failed to Score: Both teams have failed to score in 56% of their respective home and away matches â the highest such rate in Zona A.
- Head-to-Head History: 67% of all Acassuso vs San Telmo meetings have finished with under 2.5 goals, and the recent trend shows even tighter contests.
- Manager Records: TobĂas Kohan (Acassuso) has a 22% win rate; Marcelo VĂĄzquez (San Telmo) has a 21% win rate. Both coaches prioritize caution.
- First Half Trends: 67% of Acassuso's home matches and 56% of San Telmo's away games have been level at half-time, suggesting a cagey opening 45 minutes.
- Relegation Pressure: Acassuso sits on 19 points (15th place), just one point above the relegation playoff zone. San Telmo has 20 points (14th place). Neither can afford to lose.
- Top Scorers: Ramiro Reynoso (5 goals) leads Acassuso; MartĂn Batallini (4 goals) leads San Telmo. Neither striker is among the division's elite.
- Set Piece Threat: Both teams rely heavily on set-pieces for goals, with crosses and corners representing their most likely route to scoring in this fixture.
Conclusion
The Acassuso vs San Telmo fixture on July 20, 2026, represents a classic Primera Nacional encounter between two struggling sides desperate for points. Our comprehensive analysis, drawing on statistical data, tactical assessment, and historical trends, points decisively toward a low-scoring, tightly contested match that is most likely to end in a 0-0 draw. Both teams share identical tactical philosophies â prioritize defensive organization, avoid mistakes, and hope for a moment of individual brilliance to decide the contest. Unfortunately for fans of attacking football, neither side possesses the creative quality or clinical finishing to break down a well-organized opponent, and the high stakes involved make caution the only sensible approach.
For bettors, this fixture offers multiple value opportunities that align with our prediction. The under 2.5 goals market at 1.65 is our best pick, representing the safest and most statistically supported option. The draw at 3.10 and BTTS No at 1.80 both offer compelling value for those seeking slightly higher returns, while the correct score 0-0 at 6.50 provides an attractive speculative angle for smaller stakes. As always, we recommend consulting our daily betting tips and banker selections for additional guidance, and practicing responsible bankroll management when placing wagers on this or any other fixture.
Ultimately, this match is unlikely to live long in the memory as a classic encounter, but for those who appreciate the tactical nuances of lower-league football, it offers a fascinating study in how pressure, form, and tactical conservatism combine to produce predictable outcomes. Expect few goals, plenty of midfield battles, and a result that does little to alter either team's season trajectory â a goalless draw that keeps both sides treading water in the crowded Primera Nacional table. For the latest updates, tomorrow's predictions, and comprehensive betting analysis across all major leagues, be sure to explore our full range of football prediction resources.
