Had this fixture not already been postponed from back in round 19, the storm that hit Buenos Aires last night may have seen it called off again. Instead, amid torrential rain and strong winds, Defensa y Justicia battled to a deserved victory over River Plate and ensured that at least for another six months, they would remain in the top flight.
This match was initially postponed due to River’s involvement in the Copa Libertadores final but since lifting the biggest prize in South American football, Marcelo Gallardo’s side has endured a notable downturn in form. Having lost just once in the Primera prior to the Libertadores final, River have now lost five of their last nine and just like San Lorenzo in 2014, will most likely head to the Club World Cup out of form.
Defensa y Justicia started superbly last night in Florencio Varela and took the lead after just three minutes when Walter Busse curled a wonderful shot from the edge of the penalty area past Julio Chiarini. El Halcón were well on top and Marcelo Gallardo was not happy with what he was seeing. His frustrations boiled over in the eyes of referee, Diego Abal and after twelve minutes, the River boss was sent from the touchline.
River failed to ever really take control and only mustered one shot on goal in the 90 minutes as the home side clinched a valuable victory. Relegation seemed a remote possibility this year but the three points ended any doubt and El Halcón can enjoy at least another six months.
golazo argentino 