After the win against Atletico Tucuman last week, Coach Leonardo Astrada repeated the same winning line-up against Godoy Cruz. Everything seemed to work, especially with River’s early goal by Mauro Rosales in the first half. Although River maintained control of the match through out the match, Godoy Cruz’s early goal in the second half sealed the game. River had the match in the final minutes, but the shot hit the post and confirmed another draw for the Millonarios.
Playing on a clear Sunday afternoon in Malvinas Argentinas Stadium in Mendoza, River took an early lead at the fourth minute. Mauro Rosales, River’s surprise striker, has been doing a great job coming back from his injury. More minutes of the field have helped the former Ajax-player, and he used it to his advantage. In addition, Diego Buonanotte was on fire against Godoy Cruz. He was able to maneuver himself through Godoy Cruz’s defense, eluding many players with his moves. He had a few chances to score, but all were missed shots.
Marcelo Gallardo made the starting line-up but was forced to leave the match halfway into the first half. Ariel Ortega replaced him after weeks of absence from the field. The first half ended in River’s favor, and all seemed positive for the Millonarios. In the second half, Godoy Cruz surprised River with an ultra-offensive start and they tied the match two minutes in off a header. Once this occurred, River went back to its old form. The team look unorganized in some instances, but the match could have been won three minutes before the final whistle. Ariel Ortega had a perfect free-kick opportunity that hit the post, causing last minute jitters for Godoy Cruz. River has improved in many areas, but the team still struggles to hold a lead and close a match. The next match is against the current Copa Libertadores champions, Estudiantes de La Plata.