Excursionistas vs Argentino de Quilmes: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Thursday, 16 July 2026 by Steve
Excursionistas vs Argentino de Quilmes
Argentina Primera B Metropolitana Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
Argentino de Quilmes: Desde Chile, un nuevo refuerzo para Argentino de Quilmes
The 2026 Primera B Metropolitana season reaches a critical juncture on Saturday, 18 July 2026, as league leaders Excursionistas welcome mid-table strugglers Argentino de Quilmes to the historic Estadio de Excursionistas in the Belgrano neighbourhood of Buenos Aires. This fixture represents a fascinating clash of contrasting fortunes, with the hosts sitting proudly at the summit of the table while the visitors from Quilmes find themselves languishing in 14th position, desperately seeking points to climb away from the relegation zone.
Excursionistas have been the standout team of the 2026 campaign, accumulating 48 points from 25 matches through an impressive record of 14 wins, 6 draws, and only 5 defeats. Under the astute management of Rodrigo Bilbao, who took charge in December 2025 on a contract running until December 2026, the Verde have transformed themselves into a formidable force capable of securing promotion to the Primera Nacional. Their defensive solidity has been particularly noteworthy, conceding just 17 goals at an average of 0.68 per match â the best defensive record in the division.
Argentino de Quilmes, nicknamed El Mate, have endured a frustrating season under manager FabiĂĄn Cecconato. With only 7 wins, 9 draws, and 9 losses from their 25 fixtures, they have managed a mere 30 points and sit uncomfortably close to the drop zone. Their away form has been particularly concerning, with just 3 victories from 12 road trips. However, history favours the visitors in this specific matchup, as they remain unbeaten against Excursionistas in their last seven encounters, recording 4 wins and 3 draws â a psychological advantage that cannot be underestimated when these two sides meet at the Coliseo del Bajo Belgrano.
Tactical Preview
Argentino de Quilmes 1-1 Liniers | Primera DivisiĂłn B | Fecha 13 (Apertura)
Formation & Key Matchups
Excursionistas 4-2-3-1
Rodrigo Bilbao has implemented a disciplined 4-2-3-1 formation that maximises Excursionistas' defensive strengths while allowing their creative players to flourish in transition. The system relies heavily on the double pivot of Gian Zoratti and Alejandro Ăvalos sitting in front of the back four, providing a protective screen that has been instrumental in their league-best defensive record. Full-backs Mariano Arango and MatĂas FernĂĄndez are encouraged to push forward selectively, while the attacking midfield trio of Francesco Celeste, Miguel LĂłpez, and JuliĂĄn Alveira support lone striker MatĂas PĂłlvera, who leads the team's scoring charts with 6 goals this season. This tactical setup has proven particularly effective at home, where Excursionistas have remained unbeaten in their last nine matches.
Argentino de Quilmes 4-4-2
FabiĂĄn Cecconato typically deploys a traditional 4-4-2 formation that emphasises width and direct passing. The system relies on the overlapping runs of full-backs Facundo Lando and Leandro GuzmĂĄn to provide service to the front pairing of ElĂas Gabriel Torancio and Dylan OyarzĂșn. Torancio has been the visitors' most reliable source of goals with 9 strikes this campaign, making him the focal point of their attacking strategy. The midfield battle will be crucial, with AgustĂn SĂĄnchez and Lautaro Filosa tasked with disrupting Excursionistas' build-up play and launching quick counter-attacks. However, this approach has left them vulnerable defensively, as evidenced by their 28 goals conceded â the third-worst record in the division.
Critical Vulnerability
Argentino de Quilmes' high defensive line and aggressive full-back positioning create significant space in behind for pacey attackers to exploit. Excursionistas' wide players, particularly IvĂĄn Arbello on the left flank and Alan Espeche on the right, possess the speed and dribbling ability to penetrate these areas. Additionally, the visitors' tendency to commit numbers forward leaves them susceptible to quick transitions â a scenario where PĂłlvera's intelligent movement and hold-up play could prove decisive. The central defensive partnership of Gonzalo Pedrosa and Lucas Mulazzi for the hosts will need to remain vigilant against Torancio's clever runs, but the overall tactical matchup strongly favours Excursionistas' organised approach against Quilmes' more chaotic style.
Team News & Squad Status
Excursionistas đ„
- MatĂas PĂłlvera (CF) â Leading scorer with 6 goals; in excellent form
- Gian Zoratti (DM) â Key defensive midfielder; crucial for breaking up play
- Mariano Arango (LB) â New winter signing from CA FĂ©nix; adding quality on the left
- Lucas Mulazzi (CB) â Rock-solid centre-back partnership with Pedrosa
- Francesco Celeste (RM) â Creative outlet providing width and crosses
- No major injury concerns reported ahead of this fixture
- New signing Alejo Valenzuela from Defensa y Justicia available for selection
Argentino de Quilmes â ïž
- ElĂas Gabriel Torancio (CF) â Top scorer with 9 goals; primary threat
- Dylan OyarzĂșn (FW) â Supporting striker with pace and technical ability
- Facundo Lando (RB) â Important for width but defensively suspect
- AgustĂn SĂĄnchez (CM) â Needs to control midfield tempo
- RomĂĄn Barreto (CB) â Must organise defence against PĂłlvera's movement
- Defensive frailties evident with 28 goals conceded in 25 matches
- Struggling for consistency away from home this season
Predicted Lineups
Se quedĂł Excursionistas y Argentino de Quilmes se lo hizo pagar caro | Universo Deportivo
| Excursionistas 4-2-3-1 | Argentino de Quilmes 4-4-2 |
|---|---|
| NicolĂĄs RodrĂguez (GK) | Ramiro GarcĂa (GK) |
| MatĂas FernĂĄndez (RB) | Facundo Lando (RB) |
| Gonzalo Pedrosa (CB) | RomĂĄn Barreto (CB) |
| Lucas Mulazzi (CB) | NicolĂĄs BenavĂdez (CB) |
| Mariano Arango (LB) | Leandro GuzmĂĄn (LB) |
| Gian Zoratti (DM) | AgustĂn SĂĄnchez (CM) |
| Alejandro Ăvalos (DM) | Lautaro Filosa (CM) |
| Francesco Celeste (RM) | SebastiĂĄn Alfonso (RM) |
| Miguel LĂłpez (AM) | Lucas Cipresso (LM) |
| JuliĂĄn Alveira (LM) | Dylan OyarzĂșn (ST) |
| MatĂas PĂłlvera (CF) | ElĂas Gabriel Torancio (ST) |
Head-to-Head Record
The historical rivalry between these two Buenos Aires clubs has been surprisingly one-sided in recent years, with Argentino de Quilmes holding a distinct psychological edge over their more illustrious opponents. Despite Excursionistas' superior league position in 2026, the head-to-head statistics paint a picture of Quilmes dominance, particularly in direct encounters. The most recent meeting on 27 May 2026 ended in a 2-2 draw at Estadio Argentino de Quilmes, a result that advanced Excursionistas 1-0 on aggregate in a cup tie but demonstrated the visitors' resilience.
Argentino de Quilmes have not lost to Excursionistas in their last seven encounters, a remarkable run stretching back to 2024 that includes four victories and three draws. Their most recent league triumph came on 29 June 2025 with a 2-1 away win, while they also secured a 2-1 home victory on 10 February 2025. For Excursionistas, breaking this hoodoo represents both a mental and practical challenge â they have not tasted victory against El Mate since the 2023 season. However, their current form suggests they are better equipped than ever to end this barren run, with home advantage at the Estadio de Excursionistas â where they remain unbeaten in nine matches â providing the perfect platform for redemption.
Key Players Comparison
MatĂas PĂłlvera
6 Goals | 25 Apps | CF
ElĂas Gabriel Torancio
9 Goals | 25 Apps | CF
Gian Zoratti
DM | Defensive Anchor
Dylan OyarzĂșn
FW | Pace & Creativity
The individual battle between the two leading marksmen will likely determine the outcome of this encounter. MatĂas PĂłlvera, Excursionistas' 6-goal striker, has been the epitome of consistency this season, combining intelligent movement with clinical finishing inside the penalty area. His ability to link play and bring teammates into the game makes him more than just a goalscorer â he is the tactical fulcrum around which Bilbao's system revolves. The winter arrival from CS General San MartĂn (Formosa) has adapted brilliantly to the demands of Primera B football and will be eager to add to his tally against a defence that has shown vulnerability throughout the campaign.
At the opposite end, ElĂas Gabriel Torancio carries the hopes of Argentino de Quilmes with his impressive 9-goal haul. The forward possesses a natural instinct for finding space in dangerous areas and has been the one constant in an otherwise inconsistent attacking unit. His partnership with Dylan OyarzĂșn provides Quilmes with a dual threat â Torancio's predatory instincts complemented by OyarzĂșn's pace and dribbling ability. However, Torancio will face his toughest test of the season against the league's meanest defence, and his ability to convert half-chances could be the difference between a valuable point and another away defeat. For those looking at correct score predictions, the battle between these two strikers offers fascinating possibilities.
The Managers
Rodrigo Bilbao
Rodrigo Bilbao arrived at Excursionistas in December 2025 with a clear mandate: secure promotion to the Primera Nacional. The former midfielder has exceeded expectations, transforming the Verde into the division's most cohesive unit through meticulous tactical preparation and excellent man-management. Bilbao's philosophy centres on defensive organisation and controlled possession, with his 4-2-3-1 system allowing Excursionistas to dominate the midfield battle while maintaining defensive solidity. His decision to recruit several winter arrivals, including Mariano Arango from CA FĂ©nix and MatĂas PĂłlvera from General San MartĂn, has proven inspired, adding quality and depth to a squad already brimming with confidence.
What sets Bilbao apart is his ability to adapt his approach based on the opposition. Against weaker teams, Excursionistas have shown they can break down compact defences through patient build-up play, while against stronger opponents, they have demonstrated resilience and counter-attacking prowess. His record of 14 wins from 25 matches speaks volumes about his tactical acumen, and a victory against Argentino de Quilmes would not only maintain their position at the summit but also exorcise the demons of recent head-to-head failures. Bilbao will be acutely aware that his side's promotion credentials will be tested against opponents who have historically had the measure of Excursionistas.
FabiĂĄn Cecconato
FabiĂĄn Cecconato faces the unenviable task of steering Argentino de Quilmes away from relegation trouble while attempting to maintain the club's proud traditions. Appointed as manager with the club sitting in the lower reaches of the table, Cecconato has struggled to impose his preferred style on a squad lacking in both confidence and consistency. His 4-4-2 formation is designed to provide defensive stability while allowing quick transitions to the front two, but the execution has been patchy at best â particularly on their travels, where they have managed just three wins from twelve attempts.
Cecconato's primary challenge lies in shoring up a defence that has conceded 28 goals in 25 matches, the third-worst record in Primera B. While Torancio's goals at the other end have kept them competitive in many fixtures, the inability to keep clean sheets has cost valuable points. The manager will likely approach this match with caution, recognising that Excursionistas' attacking quality demands respect, but also knowing that his team's historical dominance in this fixture provides a psychological boost. A point at the Estadio de Excursionistas would be considered a valuable result in Quilmes' battle for survival, and Cecconato may opt for a more conservative approach than usual to frustrate the league leaders.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.73
Excursionistas have been the dominant force in Primera B this season, and their home form is particularly impressive with an unbeaten run stretching back nine matches. The league leaders have conceded just 17 goals in 25 fixtures and possess the tactical discipline to break down Argentino de Quilmes' fragile defence. While historical head-to-head records favour the visitors, current form and home advantage make the hosts overwhelming favourites. For those seeking sure win predictions, this represents one of the safest bets of the weekend.
Odds: 1.65
Excursionistas' matches have averaged just 2.16 goals per game this season, with 72% of their fixtures featuring fewer than 2.5 goals. Their defensive organisation, marshalled by the excellent Gian Zoratti and the centre-back pairing of Gonzalo Pedrosa and Lucas Mulazzi, has been the foundation of their success. Argentino de Quilmes have also been involved in low-scoring affairs recently, and with both managers likely prioritising defensive solidity, this match has all the hallmarks of a tight, tactical encounter. Check out our over under prediction guides for more insights on this market.
Odds: 2.40
With Excursionistas keeping 12 clean sheets in 25 matches and Argentino de Quilmes struggling for consistency in front of goal away from home, the hosts winning without conceding offers excellent value. The Verde have not lost at home since early in the campaign and have shown they can control matches from start to finish. This bet combines Excursionistas' defensive prowess with Quilmes' attacking limitations, making it an attractive option for punters seeking higher returns. Our GG/NG predictions also suggest a low probability of both teams scoring.
Odds: 5.50
Our primary prediction for this encounter is a narrow 1-0 victory for the home side. Excursionistas have demonstrated a remarkable ability to grind out results, with seven of their 14 wins coming by a single-goal margin. Their patient, methodical approach often wears down opponents, and a solitary strike from MatĂas PĂłlvera or a set-piece specialist could prove sufficient against a Quilmes side that has struggled to create clear-cut chances on the road. This correct score tip aligns perfectly with both teams' recent trends and the tactical matchup.
Odds: 4.20
For those seeking a higher-risk, higher-reward wager, the Draw/Excursionistas HT/FT market offers intriguing possibilities. Excursionistas have shown a tendency to start cautiously before asserting their dominance in the second half, particularly in matches where they are expected to win. Argentino de Quilmes may adopt a defensive approach in the opening 45 minutes, making a goalless first half a distinct possibility. As the game progresses, Excursionistas' superior fitness and tactical flexibility should see them break the deadlock and secure all three points. This speculative bet is ideal for punters looking to maximise returns while backing the league leaders.
đ Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction of a 1-0 Excursionistas victory is grounded in comprehensive statistical analysis and tactical evaluation. The league leaders have built their campaign on defensive excellence and controlled, patient attacking play â a combination that has seen them concede just 17 goals while maintaining a positive goal difference of +20. Their home record is formidable, with the Estadio de Excursionistas becoming a fortress where opponents struggle to create meaningful opportunities. The artificial turf surface, installed in 2015 as the first AFA-approved synthetic pitch in Argentine football, provides a consistent playing field that suits Excursionistas' technical approach.
Argentino de Quilmes arrive in Belgrano with historical confidence but current form that suggests they will struggle to contain the hosts. Their away record of just three wins from twelve attempts, combined with a defence that has leaked 28 goals, paints a picture of a team vulnerable against organised opposition. While ElĂas Gabriel Torancio possesses the individual quality to trouble any defence, Excursionistas' cohesive backline and disciplined midfield screening should limit his influence. We anticipate a controlled performance from the league leaders, with a solitary goal â likely from MatĂas PĂłlvera or a set-piece situation â proving sufficient to secure three points and maintain their position at the Primera B summit. For more detailed fulltime predictions and analysis, visit our dedicated section.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Excursionistas have kept 12 clean sheets in 25 Primera B matches this season (48% clean sheet rate)
- The hosts have conceded just 17 goals at an average of 0.68 per match â best defensive record in the division
- Excursionistas are unbeaten in their last 9 home matches at Estadio de Excursionistas
- Argentino de Quilmes have won only 3 of their 12 away fixtures this season
- The visitors have conceded 28 goals in 25 matches (1.12 per game) â third-worst defensive record
- Argentino de Quilmes remain unbeaten against Excursionistas in their last 7 meetings (4W, 3D)
- 72% of Excursionistas' matches this season have featured under 2.5 goals
- MatĂas PĂłlvera leads Excursionistas with 6 goals; ElĂas Gabriel Torancio tops Quilmes with 9 goals
- Excursionistas have won 14 of 25 matches (56% win rate) compared to Quilmes' 7 wins (28%)
- The hosts have accumulated 48 points from 25 games, sitting top of the Primera B table
- Argentino de Quilmes sit in 14th position with 30 points, just 6 points clear of the relegation zone
- Excursionistas' average of 1.92 points per game is the highest in the division
Conclusion
This Primera B Metropolitana clash presents a compelling narrative of league leaders versus struggling visitors, current form against historical dominance, and tactical discipline against individual brilliance. Excursionistas enter the fixture as deserved favourites, their remarkable defensive record and formidable home form providing the platform for what should be a controlled victory. Rodrigo Bilbao has instilled a winning mentality and tactical clarity that has transformed the Verde into genuine promotion contenders, and a victory here would further cement their credentials as the team to beat in Argentina's third tier.
However, the ghost of past encounters looms large. Argentino de Quilmes' seven-match unbeaten run against Excursionistas demonstrates that form guides can be rendered irrelevant in derby-style atmospheres, and FabiĂĄn Cecconato will be desperate to extend that sequence to keep his team's survival hopes alive. The visitors possess enough quality in the attacking third, particularly through the prolific ElĂas Gabriel Torancio, to trouble even the division's stingiest defence. Yet the evidence of the 2026 season suggests that Excursionistas are a different proposition now â more organised, more confident, and more ruthless than in previous campaigns.
Ultimately, we anticipate a tight, tactical affair decided by fine margins. Excursionistas' superior squad depth, defensive organisation, and home advantage should prove decisive, with a 1-0 victory representing the most likely outcome. For bettors, the home win combined with under 2.5 goals offers the safest route to profit, while the correct score market provides excellent value for those willing to back our predicted scoreline. Whatever the result, this fixture encapsulates the drama and unpredictability that makes Primera B Metropolitana football so compelling â a league where every point matters and every match tells a story.