Chilean midfielder César Pérez returned to professional competition on Monday, marking his first appearance for Defensa y Justicia following a seven-month absence due to a ligament tear. The midfielder featured in the club's 2-1 defeat against Talleres de Córdoba during the Argentine Torneo Apertura.
Pérez had not played a competitive match since August 31. His injury occurred on September 7 during a training session with the Chilean national team, a setback that required surgical intervention.
The injury kept the midfielder sidelined for the remainder of the previous season. Following the completion of his medical and physical rehabilitation phases, head coach Mariano Soso cleared Pérez to rejoin the active roster.
Match performance
Pérez entered the pitch in the 64th minute, replacing Agustín Hausch. During his time on the field, the midfielder recorded 15 touches.
According to statistics from FotMob, Pérez completed 13 of those 15 passes, maintaining an 87% accuracy rate.
His return provides a tactical option for Defensa y Justicia as the tournament enters its final stages. The performance also places Pérez back in contention for national team manager Nicolás Córdova in upcoming international call-ups.
