In a highly anticipated clash, River Plate triumphed over Boca Juniors with a narrow 2-1 victory in the latest edition of the Argentine Superclasico at the Mas Monumental stadium. That match, played on Sunday, saw a truly electric atmosphere and the largest ever crowd of over 85,000 fans in the stands. Popemobile and all, the gathering held a one minute silence in memory of Pope Francis, who is himself Argentine.
It was an amazing game with plenty of ups and downs, both teams leaving everything on the field. It was River who opened the scoring first, as Franco Mastantuono scored an amazing strike in the 25th minute. His fabulous goal really set the tone for the whole game.
Key Moments of the Match
Boca’s Miguel Merentiel answered back swiftly, finding the net in the 38th minute after capitalizing on a defensive error by River’s German Pezzella. Merentiel’s goal was his sixth of the season, it tied the match momentarily, and added a spark of hope for Boca fans.
River reclaimed the lead in the final minute of the first half. Enzo Perez won the ball in midfield and immediately sent a first-time ball to the feet of Sebastián Driussi. Driussi doubled the lead with a close-range finish just before halftime. Driussi’s header crashed off Boca goalkeeper Agustin Marchesin, a reflection of the intensity that had enveloped both teams’ play — and their rivalry.
“A derby is lived with a lot of adrenaline, but I tried to focus, isolate myself and concentrate and I think that helped,” – Franco Mastantuono
Tactical Battles and Narrow Escapes
The game remained an end-to-end affair with both sides creating opportunities to score after halftime. River’s Franco Mastantuono had a chance to put the game out of reach but missed the target. Boca’s Exequiel Zeballos and Merentiel both came close to leveling the score again, but their efforts were thwarted by River’s defense and goalkeeper.
Agustin Marchesin was Boca’s MVP, and arguably the best on the pitch, making impressive saves all game long. He denied German Pezzella’s header from a corner, showcasing his shot-stopping ability, and parried away Driussi’s fierce drive shortly after River’s second goal.
Current Standings and Implications
With this result, River Plate is third place in Group B with 28 points. They are just behind Independiente, who sit on 28 points but occupy second place on goal difference. This outcome adds fuel to River’s dreams. It creates yet another thrilling chapter in the deeply storied rivalry – known as the Superclasico – between these two Argentine giants.
“I had a lot of faith in myself and it’s not easy being so young that the team allows you an opportunity like this. The team gave me that confidence and I value the place I’m in,” – Franco Mastantuono
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