River Plate travelled to Ecuador for the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana Last 16 tie against Liga De Loja but will look back ruefully on a night where mistakes cost them. Ramon Diaz’s men actually showed a little more attacking intent than in recent weeks but must now come from behind in El Monumental next week if they are to progress. River went behind just after the half hour mark after defending a free kick from the left atrociously and allowing Pedro Larrea a close range finish. The second half started much brighter and even eventually River were level, Manuel Lanzini created the opportunity and Osmar Ferreyra rifled the ball into the net. Perhaps a score draw away in the altitude of Ecuador would not have proved such a bad night but young centre back, German Pezzella’s clumsy challenge made life more complicated. The penalty he conceded was scored by Jonny Uchuari and so it finished 2-1 to Loja. This is another set back in River’s less than impressive start to this season but the expectation would still be that they will turn this around when back in Buenos Aires. SEE THE GOALS HERE….