Torres Seals Dramatic Victory as Gimnasia Stuns Barracas
Key Takeaways
- Gimnasia La Plata secured a commanding 0-2 victory over Barracas Central
- Manuel Panaro's early VAR-awarded strike set the tone after 22 minutes
- Franco Torres delivered the knockout blow deep into stoppage time
- Barracas dominated possession but failed to convert numerous second-half chances
Franco Torres unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike deep into the third minute of stoppage time, sealing Gimnasia La Plata's emphatic 0-2 triumph over Barracas Central at the Estadio Claudio Chiqui Tapia. The substitute's clinical finish capped a masterful away performance that saw the visitors weather a relentless second-half storm to claim all three points in Buenos Aires.
The drama began early when Manuel Panaro pounced from point-blank range in the 22nd minute, his right-footed effort initially causing controversy before VAR confirmed the goal stood. The striker's predatory instincts in the six-yard box gave Gimnasia the perfect platform, silencing the home crowd and setting the tone for what would become a defensive masterclass.
Barracas Central threw everything at their opponents after the break, with Jhonatan Candia rattling the crossbar from a direct free kick in the 66th minute - the closest the hosts came to breaking their duck. Tomás Porra's header forced a spectacular save from Nelson Insfrán moments later, while substitute Manuel Duarte saw his long-range effort blocked as desperation crept into Barracas' play.
Despite controlling 59% of possession and registering 15 shots to Gimnasia's 12, Barracas couldn't find the breakthrough their dominance deserved. Goalkeeper Marcelo Miño kept his side in contention with crucial saves, including a double stop in the 87th minute that denied both Marcelo Torres and Franco Torres from close range.
The turning point arrived when Gimnasia introduced Franco Torres as a substitute in the 65th minute, replacing the injured Jeremías Merlo. The fresh legs proved decisive as Torres exploited tired Barracas legs, first testing Miño before delivering the coup de grâce that broke home hearts.
As the final whistle echoed around the stadium, Gimnasia's players celebrated a statement victory that showcased their resilience and clinical edge. The visitors' ability to absorb pressure and strike at crucial moments will serve them well as both teams prepare for their upcoming fixtures in what promises to be a grueling Liga Profesional campaign.