River Plate Edge Through Penalties to Meet Palmeiras in Libertadores Showdown

Road to the semi‑final

When River Plate travelled to Buenos Aires for the second leg of the Copa Libertadores quarter‑final, the stakes were crystal clear: a win or a tie on aggregate would seal a spot against Brazilian giants Palmeiras. The first match in São Paulo ended 1-1, setting up a tense return where both teams knew every mistake could be costly.

River Plate pressed hard from the kickoff, creating chances that tested Palmeiras' back line. A quick counter‑attack in the 23rd minute saw River’s forward slot the ball past the Brazilian keeper, but an off‑side call erased the lead. Palmeiras answered with a composed strike before halftime, making it 1-1 on the night and 2-2 overall.

Extra time offered no respite. Both sides exchanged blows, but fatigue showed. The referee’s final whistle signalled the inevitable: a penalty shoot‑out to decide who would move on.

What the penalty shoot‑out meant

River Plate’s goalkeeper, a seasoned veteran, became the hero as he saved two of Palmeiras’ spot‑kicks. The Argentine attackers, calm under pressure, converted three of their attempts, sealing the victory.

• First penalty: River’s captain slides the ball low, keeper dives the right way – goal.
• Palmeiras misses: a powerful shot rattles the crossbar.
• Second River penalty: a cheeky chip, keeper is caught flat-footed – goal.
• Palmeiras scores, but the margin remains.
• Final River kick: a confident strike into the bottom corner – clinches the shoot‑out.

The triumph not only pushes River Plate into the semi‑finals but also fuels a narrative of resilience. After a season of mixed league results, the Argentine side has shown it can perform when the pressure mounts.

For Palmeiras, the loss is a setback but also a learning curve. Their coach praised the team's effort, noting that the experience could sharpen their focus for the upcoming clash.

Both clubs now set their sights on the semi‑final showdown, a match that promises fireworks. River Plate’s ability to endure penalties will be a talking point, while Palmeiras will aim to avenge the missed chances and secure a spot in the final.