Argentine Championship. Primera C. Women
Primera C Women is the third tier in Argentina's women's football pyramid, overseen by the Argentine Football Association (AFA). It features 20-24 teams from across the nation, serving as a vital stepping stone for aspiring clubs aiming for promotion to Primera B and eventually the elite Primera A. In 2024, the league underscores the surge in women's football popularity post-Argentina's national team successes.
History and foundation
Women's football in Argentina gained traction in the 1990s, but Primera C emerged in 2019 amid AFA's push for structured women's leagues. The inaugural season was disrupted by COVID-19. A highlight: Independiente de La Rioja's 2022 triumph and promotion to Primera B galvanized regional clubs. The league has navigated mergers and reforms, mirroring the fight for professionalization in a male-dominated sport.
Tournament format
The season follows a double round-robin format (home and away), totaling 38-46 matches per team. The winner earns direct promotion to Primera B; positions 2-4 enter playoffs for extra spots. Bottom 3-4 teams face relegation to regional leagues. Games occur on club grounds or neutrals, prioritizing safety and infrastructure growth.
Interesting facts
Primera C boasts high scoring — average 3.2-3.5 goals per game, fueled by attacking play and defensive frailties. Top scorers include Maria Sosa (Atlético Tigre, 28 goals in 2023) and Laura Perez (Deportivo Morón, 24). Standout alumni: Clara Pereira, now at Boca Juniors in Primera A, and prodigy Sofia Martinez from Estudiantes de La Plata, known for dazzling dribbles and vision. It's a talent factory for the national team.