CA Ituzaingo Reserves 3 – 2 Argentino Merlo Reserves | Argentine Reserve League | 17 June 2026

A five‑goal thriller unfolded at the Estadio Carlos Ferrotti as CA Ituzaingo Reserves edged out Argentino Merlo Reserves 3‑2 in a pulsating encounter that kept supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. The match, part of the Argentine Reserve League, offered a fine showcase of emerging talents and competitive spirit.

Match Report

Ituzaingo started brightly and took the lead inside ten minutes. A corner kick was met by a powerful header from Mateo Benítez, giving the home side an early advantage. However, Argentino Merlo responded quickly. Just four minutes later, a defensive mix‑up allowed Lautaro Fernández to pounce and slot home the equaliser, 1‑1.

The back‑and‑forth continued. Ituzaingo regained the lead in the 27th minute when Facundo Ríos cut inside from the left wing and unleashed a curling shot that nestled into the far corner. 2‑1 at half‑time, and the hosts looked in control.

A Dramatic Second Half

After the interval, Argentino Merlo came out with renewed determination. Their midfield gained control, and in the 58th minute they drew level again. A free‑kick from the edge of the box was deflected past the Ituzaingo keeper, with the goal credited to Matías Acosta after a slight touch. 2‑2, and the game was wide open.

Both teams pushed for a winner. Ituzaingo’s attacking pressure finally paid off in the 82nd minute. A swift counter‑attack ended with a cross from the right, and substitute Agustín Silva rose highest to nod home the decisive goal. 3‑2, and the home fans erupted.

Argentino Merlo threw numbers forward in stoppage time, but Ituzaingo’s defence held firm to secure a vital three points.

Key Performers

• Facundo Ríos (Ituzaingo) – Scored a stunning second goal and was a constant threat on the flank.
• Agustín Silva (Ituzaingo) – The impact substitute provided the winning header and changed the game’s dynamic.
• Lautaro Fernández (Merlo) – Scored the early equaliser and never stopped running until the final whistle.

League Impact

The victory lifts CA Ituzaingo Reserves into the upper half of the Argentine Reserve League table, while Argentino Merlo Reserves remain just above the relegation zone. For the winning side, head coach Pablo González praised his team’s resilience: “We knew it would be a tough match. To concede twice and still find a way to win shows real character.”

The result also highlights the depth of young talent in the reserve division, with several players catching the eye of first‑team scouts in attendance.