Lanús — Godoy Cruz : Match Preview and Prediction for October 18,2025

Lanús’ Current Form and Deceptive Statistics

Lanús is undeniably in excellent form. They’ve gone 7 matches without a loss, are contending for the top spot in their zone, and recently secured a confident 2-0 away victory against Independiente. However, it’s crucial to look beyond the scoreboard. A deeper dive into the statistics of that match against Independiente reveals a different picture: the losing team had 66% possession and 21 shots, compared to Lanús’s 34% possession and just 8 shots. This doesn’t suggest dominance; it rather points to highly effective finishing from fewer opportunities while the opponent controlled the play.

Prioritizing the Copa Sudamericana Semifinal

The most significant factor that cannot be overlooked is their upcoming Copa Sudamericana semifinal. Next Thursday, October 23rd, Mauricio Pellegrino’s squad faces a grueling away trip to Chile to play Universidad de Chile. All thoughts, preparations, and the entire focus of the coaching staff and key players will undoubtedly be directed towards that crucial continental clash. While the league is important, a continental tournament semifinal is an event of an entirely different magnitude.

Expected Squad Rotation Against Godoy Cruz

It’s quite evident that we can expect squad rotation in the match against Godoy Cruz. Pellegrino is simply obligated to rest key players ahead of the vital international encounter. This opens a window of opportunity for their opponent, who will arrive determined to fight for survival. Competing on two fronts is an immense challenge, and it’s often in these seemingly ‘routine’ matches that teams stumble.

Godoy Cruz’s Desperate Fight Against Relegation

Godoy Cruz is currently in a difficult position, figuratively ‘on fire’ in a negative sense. The team sits 28th in the annual table, just three points above the relegation zone. For them, every remaining match is a final, where they must desperately claw for points. While they haven’t won in five consecutive rounds, let’s examine these results: four draws and one loss. Godoy Cruz isn’t collapsing; they are fighting and consistently picking up points, even if it’s just one at a time.

Resilient Performance in the Derby

Their last match ended in a goalless draw in the derby against Independiente Rivadavia. In an away game, amidst the tense atmosphere of a derby, Walter Ribonetto’s team managed to keep a clean sheet and secure a point. Furthermore, Godoy Cruz surpassed their opponent in ball possession statistics (63% vs 37%), indicating their ability to control the game even under challenging circumstances. This is not a team that merely sits back in defense.

Squad Challenges and Focus on Discipline

Indeed, the visitors face significant squad challenges. Defender Juan Escobar will miss the match due to injury, and key midfielder Nicolas Fernandez is suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards. These are serious losses, but they will only compel the team to act even more cohesively and pragmatically. When survival is at stake, character and tactical discipline come to the forefront, not just the names on the jerseys.