Argentine Championship. Youth League
The Argentine Youth Championship, officially Torneo de Reserva or Liga Profesional Reserva, is a competitive league for under-20 players from top Argentine clubs. It serves as a crucial breeding ground where prospects hone their skills under the watchful eyes of scouts, often fast-tracking to senior squads. The league embodies Argentina's football passion, emphasizing technical flair, creativity, and grit.
History and foundation
Rooted in mid-20th century regional youth setups, the modern national reserve league launched in 2013 under the Liga Profesional de Fútbol. Lionel Messi debuted here with Newell's Old Boys in 2003, netting 39 goals in a season—a record still celebrated. Reforms hit in 2020 amid COVID, streamlining the schedule. River Plate leads with 8 titles, Boca Juniors close with 6; notable finals include River's 2023 thriller.
Tournament format
Featuring 28 teams mirroring Primera División clubs, the season splits into Apertura (Jan-May, 14 rounds) and Clausura (Jul-Nov, 14 rounds). Phase winners contest a superfinal for the championship. A reserve cup runs parallel. Matches align with senior fixtures on the same grounds, with foreigner limits (max 4 per squad).
Interesting facts
High-scoring affair: average 3.2 goals per game in 2023. Standout scorers: Franco Mastantuono (River, 19 goals), Aaron Mondragón (Racing, 15). Stars like Julián Álvarez (River, 18 youth goals before Man City), Enzo Fernández (Chelsea maestro), and Inter's Valentín Carboni (22 goals) emerged here. It's a hotbed for Argentina's inventive playmakers.