Di Maria penalty gives Rosario Central 1-0 win over 10-man Lanus

Angel Di Maria scored a late penalty as Rosario Central edged to a 1-0 away win over 10-man Lanus in Argentina's Primera Division Clausura tournament on Saturday.

Lanus defender Carlos Izquierdoz was sent off in the 71st minute for remonstrating with the referee over a penalty awarded against goalkeeper Nahuel Losada for tripping Gaspar Duarte in the area.

Di Maria converted the resultant spot kick and Rosario Central held on to secure its first win of the campaign.

"It was a tough game against a difficult opponent but thankfully we were awarded a clear penalty and I was able to make the most of it," said Di Maria, who rejoined his original club on a free transfer earlier this month.

"I'm happy for all of our fans who made the trip to watch us today. I hope they enjoyed this victory," added the World Cup winner.

Rosario Central is now fourth in Group B, with four points from two games, having drawn its season opener against Godoy Cruz. Lanus is last in the 15-team group with two losses from as many matches.