Copa Libertadores
Boca Juniors vs River Plate Preview
This match has been postponed due to weather conditions to Sunday, Nov 11 at 4 p.m. (est).
- Date: Saturday, Nov. 10
- Time: 3 p.m. (est)
- Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Network: Fox Deportes
- Venue: La Bombonera
- Seating Capacity: 49,000
For many years ‘El Superclásico‘ has been regarded as one of football’s greatest rivalries in South America. However, many will argue that is even bigger than ‘El Clásico’ in La Liga. What is certain is that this Saturday Boca Juniors will host River Plate at the Bombonera en La Boca.
Additionally, this is the first time ever that ‘El Superclásico‘ is played in a Copa Libertadores final. Also, this will be the last time the competition will feature a home and away game. The South America’s version of the Champions League final will feature a single elimination game moving forward.
The eternal rivals will certainly make history in Buenos Aires in their first leg matchup.
How They Get In
Both Boca and River have very similar 2018 campaigns in Copa Libertadores. Both have six wins, five draws and one defeat. However, they both reached this year’s finals in very different ways.
River displayed so much resiliency in the round of 16 and the quarterfinals against Racing Club and Independiente while Boca reached their top form in the semifinals against Palmeiras.
Macerlo Gallardo’s side enjoyed a particular pleasing group state. River registered impressive wins and avoided any setbacks. Contrary to this, Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s side qualified to the knockout stages only after Palmeiras defeated Colombian side Atletico Junior. Something that perhaps Palmeiras now regrets.
Team News
Despite concerns over Dario Benedetto’s availability and health, Boca has included him in the 21-man roster. Additionally, Pablo Perez has recovered in time from his foot injury and will likely feature in the game. Nevertheless, veterans Mauro Zarate and Carlos Tevez will likely start on the bench and gain action as the game progresses.
Meanwhile, River Plate has concerns over midfielder Leonardo Ponzio. Despite this, Gallardo’s side seems fit and in great form for the match.
Potential Starting Lineups
Boca XI: Rossi; Jara, Izquierdoz, Magallan, Olaza; Nandez, Barrios, Perez; Villa, Abila, Pavon.
River XI: Armani; Montiel, Maidana, Pinola, Casco; Palacios, Perez, Fernandez, G. Martinez; Pratto, Borre.
Prediction
Last time these two sides played in league competition, River picked up a win over Boca at La Bombonera. However, Los Xeneizes were plagued with injuries while battling through them during the tournament. Since, Boca has been able to create some serious momentum in the tournament and conceded plenty of confidence. Nonetheless, River will be without manager Gallardo who has been given a four game ban by CONMEBOL. For this reason, Boca has a slight edge over the visitors ahead of the second leg.
Prediction: Boca Juniors 2 – 1 River Plate
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