All of the pre-match discussion centered on River combating the extreme altitude in Oruro, Bolivia and the suggestion that the players would be taking viagra in an effort to tackle the draining effects of playing at 3,700 metres above sea level. Ultimately whatever River tried, it didn’t work as San José ran out 2-0 winners thanks to two late goals which perhaps Marcelo Barovero will not want to watch again.

For much of the match, it was River in control but maybe lacking their usual zip, the attack could not muster an important opening goal. Instead, ten minutes from time a cross from the left was flapped at by Barovero, who could only get finger tips on the ball, and Ángel Orué headed in at the backpost.

Heading for defeat, in the 87th minute it was confirmed by Gabriel Valverde’s fierce, long range freekick. No doubt aided by the thin air, the ball swerved and left Barovero rooted to the spot, inflicting a first international defeat for Marcelo Gallardo.

River’s group was always made slightly difficult by the long distances and the trip to Bolivia was the most difficult but qualification should still be comfortable for the Copa Sudamericana champions.

San José  2 – 0  River Plate