Independiente finished the Torneo Betano on a high note, delivering strong performances in their final three matches, which included two wins and a 0-0 draw against Boca Juniors away from home.

As they kick off the Apertura today, they bring the momentum of their excellent form, including an impressive 5-2 victory against Uruguay's Defensor in the Serie Río de la Plata Tournament. Their recent run has bolstered confidence, especially when looking at their home performances in the previous season.

Independiente was formidable at home, remaining unbeaten in 13 matches. In fact, across 27 league games, they only suffered one loss, which came in the opening match against Talleres (1-3). Their defensive solidity made it difficult for opponents to score, let alone win, on their home turf.

On the other hand, Sarmiento enters this season on the back of a lackluster finish to the last campaign, managing just one win in their final five matches. Their struggles were particularly evident in away games, where they posted the third-worst record in the league. Across 13 away matches, they managed just one win, with a poor goal difference of 9:18.

However, there is hope for an improved offensive output this season with the addition of Mangin, a proven scorer in Argentina from his time with Tigre. Whether he can provide the spark Sarmiento needs to reverse their away struggles remains to be seen.