Godoy Cruz Antonio Tomba produced a stunning attacking display to beat Club Atlético Estudiantes 6-3 in the Argentine Primera Nacional on October 19, 2026, in a nine-goal thriller at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas. The home side’s emphatic victory was built on a blistering first-half performance and a hat-trick that will be remembered by the Mendoza faithful for some time.

Match Overview

Godoy Cruz came out with a clear plan: press high, move the ball quickly, and test Estudiantes’ back line at every opportunity. Within the opening half-hour, the hosts had raced into a three-goal lead, exposing gaps on both flanks and converting their chances with ruthless efficiency. Estudiantes fought back before half-time to make it 3-2, but Godoy Cruz reasserted control after the break and pulled away again in a chaotic second period.

Key Moments

• 7th minute: Godoy Cruz opened the scoring through Julián Córdoba, who finished calmly after a slick one-two on the edge of the box.
• 14th minute: Matías Ramírez doubled the lead with a low drive from distance that beat the Estudiantes goalkeeper at his near post.
• 23rd minute: Córdoba grabbed his second, converting a cross from the right with a first-time finish.
• 31st minute: Estudiantes pulled one back through Facundo Pereyra, who capitalised on a defensive error.
• 45th minute: Nicolás Benegas made it 3-2 with a header from a corner, giving the visitors hope at the break.
• 52nd minute: Godoy Cruz restored their two-goal cushion when Lucas Arce slotted home after a quick counter.
• 61st minute: Pereyra scored his second for Estudiantes, finishing off a well-worked move to make it 4-3.
• 74th minute: Córdoba completed his hat-trick with a composed finish inside the area.
• 88th minute: Ramírez added his second and Godoy Cruz’s sixth to seal the win.

Tactical Story

Godoy Cruz’s midfield trio controlled the tempo, winning second balls and feeding the front three with regularity. Estudiantes struggled to cope with the movement of Córdoba and Ramírez, and their attempts to play a high line were punished repeatedly. The visitors did show character to twice reduce the deficit, but their defensive shape collapsed under sustained pressure. Godoy Cruz’s decision to keep attacking rather than protect the lead proved decisive, and the scoreline could have been even more emphatic.

Standout Players

Julián Córdoba was the obvious headline act, with his hat-trick showcasing sharp positioning and clinical finishing. Matías Ramírez’s brace and all-round link play were equally important, while Lucas Arce’s energy in midfield gave Godoy Cruz control in transition. For Estudiantes, Facundo Pereyra’s two goals were a rare bright spot on a difficult afternoon.

Season Impact

The win gives Godoy Cruz a significant boost in the Primera Nacional promotion race and improves their goal difference considerably. Estudiantes, meanwhile, will need to address defensive frailties quickly if they are to stay in contention. In a league where every point matters, a 6-3 victory sends a clear message about Godoy Cruz’s attacking potential.