River Plate Faces Gimnasia in Crucial Match for Copa Libertadores Qualification

La Plata, Argentina — River Plate aims to secure its place in the Copa Libertadores round of 16 when they face Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 5 p.m. local time. The match is essential for River, sitting precariously in the standings after a series of lackluster performances.

River is on a three-match winless streak, with two draws and a loss in their last outings. The team is eager to bounce back against Gimnasia, who are also seeking a much-needed victory, having gone six matches without a win, including three losses and three draws.

“We need to find our form quickly, and today’s match is a perfect opportunity,” said River’s coach Marcelo Gallardo. “Every point is crucial as we fight to secure our position in the tournament.”

The Millonario will be without defender Paulo Díaz due to injury but welcomes back Leandro González Pírez. The likely starting lineup includes Franco Armani; Gonzalo Montiel, Germán Pezzella, Leandro González Pírez, Marcos Acuña; Kevin Castaño, Enzo Pérez, Santiago Simón; Franco Mastantuono; Sebastián Driussi, and Facundo Colidio.

Gimnasia coach Diego Flores will field a team that has struggled in recent weeks, with their last game ending in a disappointing result against Estudiantes. The lineup for Gimnasia will feature Nelson Insfrán; Juan Pintado, Leonardo Morales, Renzo Giampaoli, Pedro Silva; Lucas Castro, Facundo di Biasi, Martín Fernández, Alejandro Piedrahita; Rodrigo Castillo, and Jan Hurtado.

“The team knows how important this match is for our hopes of qualifying,” Flores stated. “We are desperate for a win, and playing at home gives us a slight advantage.”

The match will take place at the Estadio Juan Carmelo Zerillo, known as ‘El Bosque,’ and is set to be broadcast live on TNT Sports. Fans can also follow the action online through various platforms, including the La Página Millonaria YouTube channel.

With both teams in dire need of a victory, anticipation is high for an exciting clash that could define their paths in the tournament. For River, winning this match is vital to not only climb the standings but also to approach the upcoming Superclásico against Boca Juniors with confidence.