# | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9 |
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17 | 5 | 8 | 4 | 20 | 17 | +3 | 23 |
19 |
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18 | 2 | 8 | 8 | 14 | 22 | -8 | 14 |
Deportivo Merlo is experiencing a deep crisis of form. In the last five rounds, the team has earned only 2 points with a record of DLLDL: draws against Real Pilar (0:0) and Midland (0:0), and defeats to UAI Urquiza (1:2), Sportivo Italiano (0:1), and Excursionistas (1:3). Their attack is misfiring – just 2 goals scored in these matches. This season, the team sits in 20th place, boasting the league's worst offensive record – 12 goals in 16 matches (0.75 on average per game). Their home stats are disastrous: 1 win, 3 draws, and 4 defeats with a goal difference of 6-8. The team is suffering from an acute shortage of goalscorers.
Villa San Carlos is in stable form, remaining unbeaten in 3 of their last 5 matches (DLWDD). The team's achievements include a resounding home victory over UAI Urquiza (3:0) and two draws – 2:2 with Dock Sud and 0:0 with Sportivo Italiano. Their only defeat came away to Real Pilar (0:1). In the league table, the club holds 7th position with 22 points and a positive goal difference (+4). Their defensive numbers are impressive – 14 goals conceded (0.93 per game), ranking among the best in the league. Away from home, the team showcases formidable defensive solidity: only 3 goals conceded in 7 matches, while scoring 3 themselves.
Statistical insights confirm the tactical imbalance. Deportivo Merlo has the league's worst conversion rate, highlighting chronic issues in attack. Meanwhile, the team concedes an average of 1.25 goals per match. Villa San Carlos, in contrast, possesses the third most reliable defense in the championship. The difference in goal output is particularly striking: the visitors have scored 18 goals compared to the hosts' 12, despite having played one fewer match. The head-to-head history also shows a trend: in the last three meetings, two ended in 1:1 draws, with Deportivo Merlo never losing.
The tactical scenario is predetermined by the teams' current form. Deportivo Merlo will be forced to take the initiative but will face the visitors' well-organized defense. The hosts' poor chance conversion against Villa San Carlos's structured defensive block sets the stage for a low-scoring affair. The visitors traditionally rely on solid defensive work and counter-attacks, a strategy particularly effective in away matches. Given that 63% of Deportivo Merlo's home games and 57% of Villa San Carlos's away games have ended with under 2.5 total goals, a tight midfield battle is expected.
The match recommendation is based on statistical data and the tactical model. Villa San Carlos is unbeaten in 4 of their last 5 matches and boasts a reliable defense. Deportivo Merlo has failed to win in 9 of their last 10 rounds, demonstrating weak attacking play. Historically, head-to-head encounters between these sides often end in draws. Considering tournament motivation and current form, the most likely outcome appears to be a draw with a minimal scoreline. Score prediction: 0:0 or 1:1.