Controversial Draw: Independiente Held to 2-2 Stalemate Against Barracas Central in League Cup Clash

In a thrilling match on matchday 9 of the League Cup, Independiente managed to secure a 2-2 draw against Barracas Central. Matías Giménez Rojas shone for Rojo, netting a brace, while Alexis Domínguez and Siro Rosane gave Guapo the lead. Despite the controversies that marked the game, Carlos Tevez’s side remains at the top of their group.

The match kicked off evenly, but Independiente capitalized on their high-pressure tactics to break the deadlock. A swift move involving Facundo Mater and Lucas González led to Ignacio Maestro Puch slotting the ball into the left corner past Sebastián Moyano.

Around the 28th minute, Rosane equalized for Barracas Central with a sublime free-kick, leaving Rodrigo Rey rooted to the spot. However, just before halftime, the game was marred by controversy.

Alexis Domínguez’s challenge on Iván Marcone went unpunished by the referee despite protests from the visiting team. Barracas Central then took the lead through Domínguez after a turnover in possession.

But the drama didn’t end there. In stoppage time of the first half, Gabriel Neves’ pass found Giménez Rojas, whose attempt to control the ball with his chest was impeded by Mater’s hand. The decision not to award a penalty further fueled tensions on the pitch.

In the second half, Independiente pressed for an equalizer, with Federico Mancuello and Gabriel Ávalos coming close. Eventually, Giménez Rojas leveled the score at 2-2 with a well-taken header.

More controversy ensued towards the end when Santiago Toloza’s free-kick found the back of the net, but Felipe Aguilar’s attempt to control the ball with his arm went unnoticed by the officials, sparking further outrage.

Despite the contentious decisions, Independiente maintains its position at the top of Zone A with 17 points, alongside Instituto, while Barracas Central sits third with 16 points. Both teams face tough challenges in their next fixtures, with Independiente hosting River Plate and Barracas Central visiting Gimnasia.