River Plate had enough chances to win three matches but once more they found themselves conceding the softest of goals and letting victory slip through their fingers. The visit to the Monumental of Peruvian side, Juan Aurich should be a comfortable win for Marcelo Gallardo’s side but Marcos Delgado’s 89th minute goal denied them what would have been a vital three points.
After Gabriel Mercado had stabbed River in front midway through the first half, River continued to display their dominance over their inferior opponents but crucially were unable to convert this into goals. Colombian Teo Gutiérrez was particularly culpable as he struck the woodwork on three occasions and as the match edged towards the final whistle, disaster struck.
A long free kick pumped into the River penalty box was not dealt with and the ball fell to Delgado, leaving Julio Chiarini with no chance as he hammered the ball into the roof of the net.
Four matches now for River in this year’s Libertadores and still without a win. This latest disappointment leaves their hopes of qualification on a knife-edge. Liga MX side have now guaranteed their place in the next round but River must now travel to México knowing that anything less than victory will see them crash out at the first hurdle. For a side considered by many as pre-tournament favourites this would be an unmitigated disaster for Gallardo and River.
golazo argentino 