Preview: Newell's Old Boys vs. Patronato - prediction, team news, lineups

The visitors find themselves in the relegation zone right now, and they only sit two points off the foot of the table.

Match preview

Newell's Old Boys have been consistent throughout this campaign, with 11 victories, three draws, and five defeats so far in the Argentine Primera Division.

Even more impressively they have been able to make an undefeated start to the second phase of this competition, which is bringing plenty of confidence into this particular fixture.

Javier Sanguinetti's men have shown great qualities defensively as of late as well, having kept four consecutive clean sheets as they head into Monday.

The most recent Newell's match saw them defeat Estudiantes 2-0 with goals from Ramiro Sordo and Juan Garro securing the result for their team.

They are not the highest-scoring team in the division, with just 23 goals to this point, but when matched with their defensive qualities the hosts have proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with.

Despite the vast difference in their league positioning, Patronato also come into this match with good form, having won their two most recent outings.

After progressing in the Copa Argentina they were able to comfortably defeat Independiente 3-1 in the league with a brace from Axel Rodriguez and a goal by Jonas Acevedo.

That is something that Facundo Sava will be hoping to see his team repeat on Monday as they look to climb the league table in a bid to get out of the relegation zone.

Patronato are only two points ahead of Talleres who are currently bottom, but equally, they are just three points from safety, giving them plenty to fight for.

Just one victory could put them in a much stronger league position, and that is something that will be looking to do sooner than later.

Newell's Old Boys Argentine Primera Division form:

Patronato Argentine Primera Division form:

Patronato form (all competitions):

Team News

Pablo Perez has been missing for the hosts as of late due to a muscle strain, and that is likely going to be a problem that will continue for them moving forwards.

Considering their recent defensive performances, it is unlikely that any changes will be made at the back as Newell's Old Boys continue to push with five at the back.

Both Leonel Mosevich and Diego Garcia remain suspended for the visitors heading into this game, and after their most recent outing Jorge Valdez was added to that list due to being sent off.

Rodriguez will be sure to retain his place upfront though after scoring a brace as he looks to continue finding the back of the net.

Newell's Old Boys possible starting lineup:

Macagno; Mendez, Ditta, Velazquez, Mansilla, Vangioni; Sforza, Fernandez, Gonzalez, Sordo; Garcia

Patronato possible starting lineup:

Altamirano; Lozano, Guasone, Alvarez, Cobos; Acevedo, Leys, Castro, Medina; Rodriquez, Estigarribia

We say: Newell's Old Boys 2-0 Patronato

Even though Patronato are in good form as of late, which is coupled with the fact that they are in a desperate need for points, this could still prove to be difficult for them.

Newell's Old Boys have been one of the most dominant teams in the league this season, and that should help them to pick up a victory here.

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