A shaky first half for River

The opening 45 minutes raised concerns for River Plate, who struggled to impose their style of play. The midfield lacked fluidity, particularly with Juan Fernando Quintero, who found it difficult to create dangerous opportunities.

Meanwhile, Carabobo showed no fear, pressing high and disrupting the Argentine side’s buildup. Players like Maurice Covalente led the intensity, helping the Venezuelan team generate a few promising chances.

Early setbacks also affected the hosts. Fausto Vera was forced off due to injury, and shortly after, Quintero also left the pitch, further weakening River’s attacking structure. Despite that, the best chance of the half fell to the Colombian, whose shot was well saved by goalkeeper Lucas Bruera.

Driussi delivers the decisive moment

In the second half, Eduardo Coudet made key changes, and the team responded with improved attacking play. The introduction of Tomás Galván added more energy and creativity in the final third.

The breakthrough came in the 66th minute. A move initiated by Kendry Páez ended with a powerful strike from Sebastián Driussi outside the box, giving River Plate the lead.

After the goal, the Argentine side took control of the match, with Páez becoming the creative hub. Galván nearly doubled the advantage, but the crossbar denied him.

Key win ahead of the Superclásico

Although River Plate failed to extend the lead, the result was deserved against a Carabobo side that lost momentum in the second half and lacked the depth to mount a comeback.

With this victory, River Plate moves to four points in Group H and remains well-positioned in the race for qualification. Attention now shifts to the highly anticipated clash against Boca Juniors, a Superclásico that could shape the team’s domestic campaign.

Coudet’s side got the job done—but there is still room for improvement if they aim to be serious contenders in the Copa Sudamericana.

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