The 2026 Torneo Apertura — the opening tournament of the Argentine Professional Football League season — concludes its quarterfinal stage on Wednesday, after the first two semifinalists secured their spots a day earlier.

Belgrano defeated Unión, while Argentinos Juniors edged past Huracán on Tuesday to book their places in the semifinals.

These are the matches that will decide the remaining two semifinalists.

Rosario Central vs. Racing Club

Action opens up with a favorite and a dark horse.

Rosario Central earned a well-deserved 3-1 victory over Independiente to make it to this stage. Spearheaded by Ángel Di María, the team also showed its bright future, with goals from two players born in 2007.

Racing secured a much-needed 1-0 win against Estudiantes in the 89th minute away from home. It was fresh air for Gustavo Costas’ team, who are on the brink of elimination at the Copa Sudamericana and barely qualified for the Playoffs.

They’ll clash at the Gigante de Arroyito stadium, in Rosario, at 7 p.m.

River Plate vs. Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata

The last matchup of the quarters sees River host Gimnasia.

River required a miraculous finish to seal their ticket to the quarters, after securing a 2-2 tie in the 121st minute of extra time against San Lorenzo. In the penalty shootout, young goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán — who was one of the surprises included in Argentina’s World Cup long list announced on Monday — emerged as the hero, saving two penalties for the win.

Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata surprised Vélez Sarsfield away from home, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory at the José Amalfitani stadium.

The two will face off at the Monumental Stadium at 9:30 p.m.

Tuesday’s results

Belgrano (Córdoba) and Argentinos Juniors secured their spots in the semifinals on Tuesday.

Belgrano beat Unión with a comfortable 2–0 at home, thanks to goals by Adrián Sánchez and Ramiro Hernández. The Pirata played a solid, mistake-free game, even showing some flashes of great play.

They’ll go up against Argentinos, who defeated Huracán 1-0 on a goal by Tomás Molina. The semifinal between the two is set to be played at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium in La Paternal, on either Saturday or Sunday.