The Copa Argentina round of 64 match between Estudiantes Rio Cuarto and San Martin Tucuman ended in a 0-0 draw on Tuesday, April 8, 2026, sending the tie to a penalty shootout to determine which team would advance. In a tightly contested cup fixture at a neutral venue, both sides battled to a stalemate through 90 minutes, with the deadlock ultimately broken from the penalty spot. The match was a classic cup tie where neither team wanted to make a costly mistake, leading to a cagey affair with few clear-cut chances.
The game began with both teams showing respect for each other, prioritizing defensive solidity over attacking flair. Estudiantes Rio Cuarto, from the lower divisions, looked organized and disciplined, while San Martin Tucuman, the higher-ranked side from the professional leagues, struggled to break down their resilient opponents. The best opportunity of the first half fell to San Martin, but their striker's header was comfortably saved by the Estudiantes goalkeeper. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Estudiantes content to absorb pressure and look for opportunities on the counter-attack. San Martin increased their possession but lacked the final pass or moment of quality to find a breakthrough, with several long-range efforts failing to trouble the keeper. The match concluded goalless after regulation time, moving directly to penalties.
The key focus point of the match was the dramatic penalty shootout that decided the outcome. Both teams displayed nerves of steel from the spot, with the first several takers converting confidently. The tension mounted with each kick until a crucial miss from a San Martin Tucuman player handed Estudiantes Rio Cuarto the advantage. The lower-league side held their nerve, converting their final penalty to secure a famous victory and a place in the next round of the Copa Argentina. The standout performance came from the Estudiantes goalkeeper, who made several important saves during the match and was a commanding presence during the shootout.
For San Martin Tucuman, the result is a disappointing early exit from a major domestic cup competition, a missed opportunity to build momentum for their league campaign. For Estudiantes Rio Cuarto, the victory is a monumental achievement, providing a financial boost and a memorable cup run for their supporters. The win propels them into the round of 32, where they will face another formidable opponent.
Post-match, the Estudiantes manager praised his team's hea