Argentina side River Plate look to extend their spot in the ongoing Copa Libertadores as they lock horns against Argentino Juniors. The match schedules for Thursday at the Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti, with kickoff at 3:30 am.
The hosts come off a successful campaign, having lifted the CONMEBOL elite prize twice in the last decade. On the other hand, the opponents find themselves in their first competition since 2010-2011.
The last competitive match for River Plate dates back to May in their 3-1 loss to Flamengo. Fast forward, Marcelo Gallardo’s men find themselves with a heavy schedule of fixtures in the next two weeks to prepare for.
After their first leg tie, the side proceeds to the Primeira Division Clausura clash against the Apertura winners Colon. Afterward, the side travels to Buenos Aires for the second leg next week.
The group stages saw them finish behind Fluminense in Group D after winning two matches and drawing in three matches in their last six group games.
On the other hand, their opponents find themselves in a hard position after conceding nine goals in their last ten matches across all competitions. In addition, Los Millonarios reached the semi-final stage of the Copa Libertadores in each of the last four seasons.
Moreover, there is a deep history in the competition, having lifted the trophy four times. A win this Thursday improves their chances in the quarter-finals.
River Plate vs Argentino Juniors Head to Head
Both sides have 17 games against each side, taking five wins and seven draws. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- River Plate 1-3 Fluminense
- River Plate 2-1 Independiente Santa Fe
- Boca Juniors 1-1 River Plate
- Atletico Junior 1-1 River Plate
- River Plate 4-1 Aldosivi
Away
- Nacional 2-0 Argentino Juniors
- Argentino Juniors 1-0 Atletico Nacional
- Juniors 0-1 Universidad Catolica
- Juniors 2-0 Estudiantes de La Plate
- Atletico Juniors 0-2 Argentino Juniors
River Plate Team News
Veteran defender Jonathan Maidan remains unavailable after picking a red card during their clash with Fluminense. The main contender to step up is Paulo Diaz to slot into the defensive role. Injury contenders at the camp include Augustin Fontana, Nicolas De La Cruz, and Lucas Pratto.
Argentino Juniors Team News
A major boost for manager Milito in their starting lineup is the return of forward Gabriel Hauche. This is after a one-match suspension.
Prediction and Odds
Given the last encounters ended in a draw, we envisage another draw given the high intense match.
- Draw
- Double Chance
- Goals Under 3.5
