The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced the referees for the eight round-of-16 matches in the Torneo Clausura 2025, starting Saturday, November 22. All games will feature VAR assistance and be played at the home of the higher-seeded team. The Racing-River classic stands out, set to include fans after Aprevide lifted a sanction.
The Torneo Clausura 2025 enters its playoff phase with the round of 16 scheduled from November 22 to 26. The AFA appointed referees for each match, ensuring Video Assistant Referee (VAR) use throughout.
On Saturday 22, Vélez Sarsfield will host Argentinos Juniors at 8:00 PM in the José Amalfitani, with Andrés Merlos as main referee and Fernando Espinoza on VAR. At 10:00 PM, Central Córdoba de Santiago del Estero faces San Lorenzo, led by Nazareno Arasa and Lucas Novelli in VAR.
On Sunday 23, Rosario Central vs. Estudiantes de La Plata at 5:30 PM in the Gigante de Arroyito, refereed by Pablo Dóvalo and Hernán Mastrángelo on VAR. At 8:00 PM, Boca Juniors hosts Talleres de Córdoba at La Bombonera, with Sebastián Zunino and Adrián Franklin.
On Monday 24, Deportivo Riestra vs. Barracas Central at 5:00 PM, with Nicolás Ramírez and Héctor Paletta on VAR. The classic Racing vs. River at 7:15 PM in the Cilindro de Avellaneda will be officiated by Facundo Tello and Yamil Possi. Finally, Unión vs. Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata at 10:00 PM, with Sebastián Martínez and Ariel Penel.
On Wednesday 26, Lanús vs. Tigre at 9:30 PM in La Fortaleza, with Leandro Rey Hilfer and Fabrizio Llobet on VAR.
For the Racing-River match, Aprevide lifted a prior sanction for pyrotechnics use in a game against Flamengo, following a meeting with Racing officials, AFA, and provincial authorities. The club committed to investigating and sanctioning those responsible, allowing local fans without flags or musical elements to prioritize safety. Only one of the original three-match penalty was served.
If a match ends in a draw, 30 minutes of extra time will be played, and if tied, penalties will decide the winner. These playoffs determine spots in the Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana, with teams like Boca, River, and Racing vying for qualification.
