On a modest street in Villa Soldati, the Estadio Guillermo Laza awaits. This isn’t a stadium of grand stands and roaring crowds. It’s a place of intimate charm, a testament to the enduring spirit of Deportivo Riestra. Estadio Guillermo Laza opened its gates on February 20, 1993. The inaugural match saw Riestra triumph over Atlas with a 1-0 victory. The stadium is more than just a venue for soccer; it’s a symbol of resilience.
Deportivo Riestra’s journey to Estadio Guillermo Laza was a long and winding one. Their original home was a humble field near Avenida Riestra and Agustin de Vedia. In 1950, they built their first stadium in Villa Soldati. Tragically, this was expropriated by the military dictatorship in 1981. For over a decade, Riestra became nomadic, playing home games at other clubs’ grounds.
But the dream of a true home never died. In 1979, the club purchased land, and in 1993, Estadio Guillermo Laza was born. Named after a former club president, the stadium became a beacon of hope. Three cement stands, two for the fervent supporters and one for seating, embrace the pitch. The stadium houses press cabins, a training field, and an indoor futsal stadium.
Over the years, Estadio Guillermo Laza has witnessed Riestra’s climb through Argentina’s football leagues. From Primera D to the heights of Primera División, the stadium has shared in the triumphs and heartbreaks. It’s a story of perseverance, echoing the club’s own struggles and successes. The year 2009 marked a significant moment, with Riestra finally paying off the stadium’s mortgage. This financial stability allowed for further improvements, including a new seating stand and training facilities between 2012 and 2013. In 2015, the indoor “Estadio Héctor Salorio” opened, providing a dedicated space for the club’s futsal team. Even with Riestra’s promotion to Primera División in 2024, Estadio Guillermo Laza remains their home. Upgrades, such as a new press box, were made to meet league requirements.
Estadio Guillermo Laza might not boast the grandeur of other stadiums. But it holds something more profound: the heart and soul of Deportivo Riestra. It’s a place where every cheer, every goal, every moment resonates with the club’s unwavering spirit. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the dream of a home can always be realized.