Oh, it’s been a while. At long, long last the summer break is over, and I can get back to writing about league action rather than transfer news and summer friendlies. There’s been a lot of talk about the new year’s ticket price hikes - more on that at the weekend - but for now at least, let’s get on with the football. Champions Lanús start with a home match against Independiente, and will want to avenge the opening day tonking they received in the Apertura. Read on for all the first weekend fixtures…

Kickoff times are local. Cristina Kirchner, who’s become the President of Argentina since the Apertura ended, has changed the country’s time in relation to Greenwich Mean Time, bringing it forward by one hour. To that end, you should from now on add just two hours (not three as before) in order to get the British kickoff time.

Primera División A Torneo Clausura 2008, first round
San Lorenzo de Almagro vs. Newell’s Old Boys (Fri, 19:00)
Estudiantes de La Plata vs. Banfield (Fri, 21:10)
San Martín de San Juan vs. Argentinos Juniors (Sat, 17:10)
Tigre vs. Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata (Sat, 19:20)
Vélez Sársfield vs. Colón de Santa Fé (Sat, 19:20)
Racing Club vs. Olimpo de Bahía Blanca (Sat, 21:30)
Lanús vs. Independiente (Sun, 17:10)
Rosario Central vs. Boca Juniors (Sun, 17:10)
Arsenal de Sarandí vs. Huracán (Sun, 19:30)
River Plate vs. Gimnasia y Esgrima de Jujuy (Sun, 19:30) (hastaelgolsiempre)