1939 Argentine Primera División: Independiente's Fourth Title
The 1939 Argentine Primera División marked the 48th season of top-flight football in Argentina. Spanning from March 19 to December 2, the tournament showcased the high level of competition in South American football during the era, culminating in a dominant performance by one of the nation's most storied clubs.
The season featured 18 teams competing for the championship. This edition was notable for its expansion and the integration of regional talent, as the league welcomed three new additions: Argentino de Quilmes, who had been promoted the previous year, and two prominent clubs from the Liga Rosarina (the regional league of Rosario), Newell's Old Boys and Rosario Central.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Champion: Independiente secured their 4th league title.
- Top Scorer: Arsenio Erico scored a remarkable 40 goals.
- Season Duration: March 19 to December 2, 1939.
- League Size: 18 participating teams.
- Additional Honors: Independiente also won the 1939 Copa Aldao.
The Dominance of Independiente
Independiente entered the 1939 season with a drive for excellence, ultimately finishing at the top of the table. Their campaign was characterized by an overwhelming offensive force, scoring 103 goals across 34 matches. With 27 wins and only 5 losses, they finished six points clear of their nearest rivals, River Plate.
A pivotal factor in their success was the legendary Paraguayan forward Arsenio Erico. Erico's performance in 1939 was historic; he became the league's top goalscorer for the third consecutive season, netting an incredible 40 goals. His clinical finishing was the engine behind Independiente's 4th league title and their victory in the Copa Aldao.
League Standings and Performance
While Independiente claimed the trophy, the competition remained fierce. River Plate and Huracán both finished with 50 points, though River Plate took the second spot. The newcomers from Rosario also made an impact, with Newell's Old Boys securing a respectable 4th place finish.
At the opposite end of the table, the struggle was evident for Argentino de Quilmes. The club faced a grueling season, failing to secure a single victory in 34 matches and conceding 148 goals, leading to their relegation.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]| Position | Team | Played | Won | Draw | Lost | Goals For | Goals Against | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Independiente | 34 | 27 | 2 | 5 | 103 | 37 | 56 |
| 2 | River Plate | 34 | 23 | 4 | 7 | 100 | 43 | 50 |
| 3 | Huracán | 34 | 23 | 4 | 7 | 97 | 56 | 50 |
| 17 | Ferro Carril Oeste | 34 | 4 | 7 | 23 | 52 | 112 | 15 |
| 18 | Argentino de Quilmes | 34 | 0 | 4 | 30 | 35 | 148 | 4 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 1939 Argentine Primera División?
Independiente won the championship, marking their 4th league title.
Who was the top goalscorer of the season?
Arsenio Erico of Independiente was the top scorer with 40 goals, achieving this feat for the third consecutive year.
Which teams were newly added to the division in 1939?
The division included Argentino de Quilmes (promoted) and two clubs from the Liga Rosarina: Newell's Old Boys and Rosario Central.
Which team was relegated at the end of the season?
Argentino de Quilmes was relegated after finishing last with only 4 points and zero wins.
Did Independiente win any other trophies in 1939?
Yes, in addition to the league title, Independiente won the 1939 Copa Aldao.