The final date of the local competition will seal the excitement around sustainability, with the possibility of a postponed finish if a tiebreaker becomes necessary.
In the 2023 season, the Professional football league moved away from declines driven by aging averages. For the first time since late 1981, a team could drop a division based on its performance across the year rather than the combined results of the last three campaigns. Given the lack of any other route, the resolution promises to be intensely engaging.
Averages, promotions and relegations in the 2023 Binance Professional League Tournament and Cup
The rules stated that the bottom team in the average table would drop to the Primera Nacional, together with the 28th-placed team in the general standings. Yet, as with both cases, Sarandi Arsenal would be joined by the second-to-last team of the year. If teams finish with equal points, a tiebreaker would be scheduled.
WHICH TEAMS ARE IN PLAY
As the season closes, Santa Fe Union (43) finds itself in a precarious position after a 4-1 defeat to Belgrano on the final day. A draw or loss would not suffice to overtake Gymnastics (45) or their derby rival Columbus (45). On the other hand, teams assured of a playoff spot—potentially three or four clubs—include Velez (46) and Sarmiento (46).
Thus, those that manage to stay in the top division for 2024 include Barracas Central, Tigre, Central Córdoba, and Huracán.
WHAT REALLY MATTERS
- UNION: Must win, while Colón and/or Gimnasia must lose. If either of them draws or Vélez loses, a tiebreak is possible.
- COLÓN AND GIMNASIA: A victory keeps them alive, even if Tatengue is not successful. If Kily González’s side draws and wins, a tiebreak would be needed.
- VÉLEZ AND SARMIENTO: At most they can secure a tiebreak if they lose and Unión wins, with Gimnasia joining if they draw, as Fortín faces the Sabalero.
HOW THE LAST DATE IS PLAYED
The league administration will announce the schedule for the final day so all matches can kick off simultaneously. Since Colón, Banfield, and Platense—rivals of Gimnasia and Sarmiento—also have playoff hopes, their games must align with the broader drama unfolding in the standings.
- Union vs. Tigre
- Banfield vs. Gimnasia
- Vélez vs. Colón
- Platense vs. Sarmiento
(Goal)