River Struck First in São Paulo

Palmeiras booked its twelfth Copa Libertadores semifinal after sealing a 3-1 aggregate victory against a resilient River Plate, which briefly believed in a comeback in São Paulo thanks to an early header by Maximiliano Salas in the 8th minute. That goal shocked the Allianz Parque, but the Brazilian side responded in the second half through Vítor Roque and a brace from “Flaco” López, who closed out the tie with authority.

The team led by Marcelo Gallardo, which had already fallen 2-1 in the first leg at the Monumental, delivered a solid first half, containing the hosts and nearly extending their lead with another clear chance from Salas denied by Weverton. The injury to Portillo, a key anchor in midfield, complicated River’s stability just before halftime.

Franco Armani also stood tall in the opening 45 minutes, stopping a dangerous header from Murilo, while Quintero and Nacho Fernández orchestrated play in midfield to keep River alive in the battle.

Roque and López Turned the Tide

The second half told a different story. Palmeiras, managed by Abel Ferreira, came out with greater intensity and found the equalizer through Vítor Roque, who followed up on a rebound from Armani to slot home and restore calm at the Allianz Parque. That strike shifted the momentum firmly in favor of the Brazilians.

From then on, tension took over the visitors. Fouls mounted, and frustration boiled over. Facundo Torres forced a penalty after a dangerous run, with Marcos Acuña committing the foul that led to his second yellow card and subsequent dismissal. “Flaco” López converted from the spot and, in stoppage time, struck again to deliver the final 3-1 blow.

The celebration was massive for Palmeiras, which continues dreaming of another continental crown. In the semifinals, they will face the winner between São Paulo and LDU Quito, while River Plate bows out once again, unable to halt Brazil’s dominance in South America’s most prestigious tournament.