River Plate Faces Off Against Ecuador’s Barcelona in Key Matchup

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — River Plate will host Ecuador’s Barcelona on Tuesday as part of the second round of group play in an international tournament, continuing their favorable history against Ecuadorian teams. The two teams will clash at River’s Estadio Monumental, an arena known for its electrifying atmosphere.

Since River Plate first faced an Ecuadorian club on February 18, 1948, the team has played a total of 37 matches, recording 20 wins, 6 draws, and 11 losses. They have scored 59 goals while allowing 34 against.

Historically, River Plate has fared well against Barcelona, having met them four times with a record of 3 victories and 1 defeat. Their encounters date back to previous international competitions, showcasing River’s strength when playing against clubs from Ecuador.

Most remarkably, River has faced Liga de Quito the most often, totaling 12 matches with 5 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses. Coach Marcelo Gallardo, who has competed against Ecuadorian teams on ten occasions, has achieved 6 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses. However, this will be his first encounter with Barcelona.

Gallardo previously led River against Liga de Quito in the 2015 CONMEBOL Sudamericana, securing a 2-0 victory at home, but fell 1-0 in Quito in the return leg. The 2016 Copa Libertadores saw River eliminated by Independiente del Valle after a 2-0 defeat in the first match, despite winning the return leg 1-0.

In Copa Libertadores editions of 2017 and 2018, River faced Emelec in the group stage, winning three matches and drawing one. The last encounter with an Ecuadorian team occurred during the 2020 Libertadores against Liga de Quito, where both teams dominated at home with 3-0 victories.

As River Plate prepares for this crucial match, fans and players alike are hopeful for a continuation of their successful history against Ecuadorian opposition.