Racing secured a valuable victory against Vélez in the first leg of the CONMEBOL Libertadores 2025 quarterfinals, but their coach, Gustavo Costas, was not entirely satisfied with his team’s performance.

The Vélez vs. Racing Club Match

In a press conference, the head coach was candid: “We’re happy with the result, but the tie is still completely open because Vélez is a team that plays very well and has great players.”

Costas highlighted a positive aspect, though paired with self-criticism: “We managed to keep a clean sheet again, which is very important for our growth. But the truth is, we didn’t play well at all.”

Regarding his decision to start Facundo Cambeses over Gabriel Arias in goal, he explained: “Facundo has to keep performing like this. I had told him he was coming in as Arias’ backup, and in football, you always have to be ready. He was confident on crosses and saved us from a draw in the final play. I’m very happy because he worked for this, had good and bad moments, but today he delivered.”

He also praised his star striker: “Maravilla Martínez is extraordinary; he has a unique presence that makes a difference.”

Finally, Costas delivered an ambitious message looking ahead: “We have to give much more. If we’re in this dream of winning the Copa Libertadores and going all out, as a team, we need to demand a lot more from ourselves.”