The Argentine Primera Division is set to witness an exciting clash as Lanus takes on Racing Club at the Estadio Ciudad de Lanus.
This matchup is crucial for both teams, especially as Racing Club aims to maintain its position at the top of the table.
Match Preview
Lanus's Current Form
Lanus has had a mixed start to their 2024 top-flight season. With only one victory in their first four league matches, the team is striving to find consistency.
Despite a disappointing loss to Independiente Rivadavia on the opening day, Lanus managed to remain unbeaten in their next three matches, securing a win against Estudiantes and draws against San Lorenzo and Rosario Central.
Their recent form includes a 1-0 defeat to Cuiaba in the Copa Sudamericana, although they had already qualified for the knockout stages.
Racing Club
In stark contrast, Racing Club has enjoyed a near-perfect start to the season. Under Gustavo Costas, Racing sits at the top of the standings, with three wins and one draw from their first four matches.
They have scored an impressive 12 goals while conceding only four. Racing's defence has been particularly strong, with five consecutive clean sheets in all competitions following their 4-4 draw with Belgrano on the opening day.
Team News
Lanus
Lanus will be without Leandro Diaz (hamstring) and Ezequiel Munoz (adductor) for this fixture.
The attacking duo of Walter Bou and Augusto Lotti will be crucial for Lanus, with Bou being particularly noteworthy for scoring 50% of Lanus' league goals this season.
Racing Club
Racing Club will miss several key players due to injuries, including Fernando Prado (knee), German Conti (muscle), Johan Carbonero, and Adrian Martinez (both ankle).
Additionally, Juan Fernando Quintero is on international duty with Colombia. However, Racing will rely on the form of Maximiliano Salas, who has been involved in three goals in his last three appearances, and Roger Martinez, the team's top scorer.
Predicted Lineups
Lanus Possible Starting XI: Aguerre; Dominguez, Munoz, Luciatti; Morgantini, Loaiza, Biafore, Soler; Moreno; Bou, Lotti
Racing Club Possible Starting XI: Arias; Sosa, Di Cesare, Basso; Martirena, Rodriguez, Nardoni, Rojas; Salas, Martinez, Urzi
Prediction
Considering the form and squad strength, Racing Club appears to be the favourite.
Lanus has struggled against top-tier teams, and their recent performance does not inspire confidence.
Moreover, Racing Club's solid defence and potent attack make them formidable opponents.
Our Prediction: Lanus 0-3 Racing Club