Belgrano Reserves edged a five-goal thriller against San Martin de San Juan Reserves, winning 3-2 in the Argentine Reserve League on October 9, 2026. The match at the Estadio Julio César Villagra was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Belgrano holding on for a vital three points.

Match Overview

Belgrano started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute through striker Pablo Chavarría, who slotted home after a slick team move. San Martin responded well and equalized in the 34th minute when winger Nicolás Maná finished off a counter-attack. However, Belgrano restored their lead in first-half stoppage time, with midfielder Bruno Zapelli curling a shot into the bottom corner. Belgrano extended their lead in the 58th minute when Chavarría scored his second, heading in from a corner. San Martin refused to give up and pulled one back in the 77th minute through substitute Ezequiel Cerutti, who converted a penalty. The visitors pushed for an equalizer, but Belgrano's defense held firm, with goalkeeper Nahuel Losada making a crucial save in stoppage time to preserve the win.

Key Moments

• 12' – Pablo Chavarría opens the scoring for Belgrano.
• 34' – Nicolás Maná equalizes for San Martin de San Juan.
• 45+2' – Bruno Zapelli restores Belgrano's lead with a fine strike.
• 58' – Chavarría scores his second with a powerful header.
• 77' – Ezequiel Cerutti converts a penalty to make it 3-2.
• 90+4' – Nahuel Losada makes a stunning save to deny San Martin an equalizer.

Tactical Analysis

Belgrano set up in a 4-3-3, looking to attack down the flanks and get crosses into the box for Chavarría. Their midfield trio of Zapelli, Ariel Rojas, and Santiago Longo controlled the game for large periods. San Martin, in a 4-2-3-1, were dangerous on the counter and caused problems with their pace. However, their defensive frailties were exposed by Belgrano's set-piece routines. In the end, Belgrano's clinical finishing proved the difference in a match that could have gone either way.

Standout Players

Pablo Chavarría (Belgrano Reserves) – The striker was the hero with two goals, showcasing his aerial ability and finishing instincts.

Bruno Zapelli (Belgrano Reserves) – The midfielder was creative and scored a crucial goal just before halftime.

Ezequiel Cerutti (San Martin de San Juan Reserves) – The substitute made an impact, scoring a penalty and causing problems for the Belgrano defense.

Season Impact

Belgrano Reserves climb to fourth in the Argentine Reserve League table, boosting their hopes of a top-four finish. San Martin de San Juan Reserves remain in mid-table, but their fighting spirit will give them confidence for the rest of the season. This win could be a turning point for Belgrano, who have struggled for consistency. With their attack clicking, they look capable of challenging the league's best. San Martin, meanwhile, will rue their defensive mistakes but can take heart from their attacking display.