The lead-up to the round of 16 match in the Clausura Tournament ended up being dominated by a scene that is now circulating throughout the country. Estudiantes complied with the order from the Professional League and the AFA to perform the traditional guard of honor for Rosario Central, but did so with their backs turned.
This request was made after Canalla was proclaimed "2025 League Champion," a recognition that had not been previously established. However, Pincha found a way to express its disapproval: all the players turned around and welcomed their opponent with their backs turned.
The reason for the disapproval: "There was no vote"
The club from La Plata, presided over by Juan Sebastián Verón, had publicly expressed its rejection of the LPF's decision. "No vote was held regarding the recognition of the 2025 League Champion title", Estudiantes announced hours before the match.
That message contradicted the official version: the League had lied by saying that the addition of the title and Central's crowning had been "unanimously approved" by the Executive Committee. It was even stated that the decision was recorded in the minutes of the meeting, in which Estudiantes was represented by its vice president, Pascual Caiella.
A guard of honor with backs turned and arms crossed
The decision to perform the champion's guard of honor for Central's players was adopted even though it is not present in any regulations and has historically been a voluntary practice.
