Newell's Old Boys and Estudiantes de La Plata played to a goalless draw at the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa on Tuesday night, with both sides failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities in a tightly contested Liga Profesional encounter.

The match, which kicked off at 22:00 UTC in Rosario, saw neither team able to break the deadlock despite several promising moments throughout the 90 minutes. The result continues Estudiantes' impressive recent form against their hosts, as they extended their unbeaten streak against Newell's to five matches.

Key Moments and Controversy

The most significant incident of the match came deep into first-half stoppage time when both teams were awarded penalties that were subsequently cancelled. Luciano Herrera appeared to have earned Newell's a golden opportunity from the spot, while Facundo Rodríguez was similarly positioned for Estudiantes, but both decisions were overturned after review.

The physical nature of the contest was evident throughout, with multiple bookings disrupting the flow of play. Éver Banega, the veteran midfielder leading Newell's attack, was among those cautioned for a foul in the ninth minute. Santiago Arzamendia, Santiago Núñez, and Juan Mosquera also found themselves in the referee's notebook as tensions rose.

Tactical Battle

Newell's manager deployed a 4-4-2 formation with experienced striker Darío Benedetto partnering Carlos González in attack, while Estudiantes opted for a more conservative 4-2-3-1 setup with Lucas Alario leading the line. The visitors' defensive solidity proved crucial, as they successfully neutralized the home side's attacking threats.

Both teams were hampered by key absences, with Newell's missing suspended midfielder Gonzalo Maroni and several injured players, while Estudiantes were without defenders Joaquín Tobio Burgos and Leandro González Pirez.

League Implications

The draw leaves Newell's Old Boys languishing in 14th position in the Liga Profesional table, while Estudiantes maintain their respectable 5th place standing. For the visitors, the point extends their solid away form and keeps them in contention for continental competition spots.

The result, while frustrating for the home faithful, reflects the competitive balance in Argentine football's top flight, where every point proves crucial in the race for both titles and relegation survival.