Atlético Tucumán defeated Tucumán Central 3-1 and 2-1 in two friendly matches held on July 3 at the Monumental José Fierro, sharpening their preparation for the Clausura start on July 26 against Independiente Rivadavia.

How did the matches unfold?

In the first friendly, the "Decano" fielded the same lineup that had beaten Talleres 3-0 in the Argentine Cup. Luis Ingolotti guarded the goal, while the back line featured Maximiliano Villa, Clever Ferreira, Luciano Vallejo and Ignacio Galván. The midfield comprised Renzo Tesuri, Leonel Vega, Lautaro Godoy, Franco Nicola and Nicolás Laméndola. Leandro Díaz opened the scoring at the 12th minute and added a penalty; Tesuri and Galván completed the tally. Rodrigo Abregú netted Tucumán Central's sole goal in stoppage time.

The second match, using a 40‑minute first half and a 20‑minute complement, pitted Atlético's alternate squad against the Liga Tucumana side. The "Decano" again won 2-1, thanks to goals from Ezequiel Ham and Ramiro Ruiz Rodríguez. The starting eleven included Tomás Durso; Leonel Di Plácido, Juan Pablo Posse, Gianluca Ferrari and Juan Infante; Gabriel Compagnucci, Kevin Ortíz, Ham, Facundo Pimienta and Ruiz Rodríguez; and Manuel Brondo up front.

What do the results mean for the coach?

Julio César Falcioni kept the same structure that closed the first half‑season successfully. No changes were made to the starting eleven and, despite no new signings in the transfer window, the coaching staff valued the squad's continuity. The day also gave three reserve players – Juan Pablo Posse, Iván Córdoba and Facundo Pimienta – minutes under the coach’s watch, each hoping to earn a spot in the second half of the year.

What’s next for Atlético Tucumán?

With the Clausura debut looming, the team continues to rack up minutes and fine‑tune tactical movements. Management is reviewing the status of fringe players and remains alert to market opportunities. The next test comes on July 26 against Independiente Rivadavia, where the "Decano" will aim to start the second half of the season with the same solidity displayed in the friendlies.