River Plate outscored Boca Juniors and claimed a second win over their rival this season, with goals from Rondón and Enzo Díaz sealing the triumph.
Beyond the Copa Libertadores and the national league, and already set for next year’s continental competition after clinching the title in the first half of the year, River’s remaining major objective in 2023 was the Superclásico at La Bombonera. They achieved it in emphatic fashion, delivering a performance that left little doubt about their superiority.
The 2023 Professional League Cup clash between River Plate and Boca Juniors featured two teams chasing different immediate goals. River approached with a strong collective display, while Boca, resting several key players under the guidance of Jorge Almirón to prepare for the Libertadores semi-final rematch in Brazil, found themselves overwhelmed and fell 2-0 to the visitors.
After a balanced opening period, River struck just before halftime through a deflection that deflected in Salomón Rondón’s shot, credited as an own- goal-level touch that gave River a crucial lead. From there, River’s control intensified, exploiting the space and pressing with purpose as Boca attempted to respond but could not break through the visitors’ organized shape. Enzo Díaz capped the night with a late finish that reinforced the result and reflected River’s dominance on the field.
The minute by minute of Boca Juniors vs. River Plate of the 2023 League Cup Superclásico
The live and direct online summary of Boca Juniors vs. River Plate of the League Cup Superclásico 2023: videos, formations, goals and controversies
- RIVER GOAL! On the hour, Enzo Díaz converted a miscue by Valdez and found the back of the net with full control of the angle and finish.
- It was a great goal! A patient River build led to a clear chance for Colidio, who fired high and wide from close range.
- The luxury of the Superclásico: Lanzini delivered a rabona-like pass that showcased the skill in luxury play.
- It’s almost a goal! Herrera produced a spectacular effort as Cavani approached, threatening to equalize.
- The controversy of the match! Cavani appeared to score, but an offside call stood after VAR review, preserving River’s lead.
- Zafo Romero! Barco’s shot escaped Chiquito’s grasp but struck the post, denying a second score for River.
- Paulo Díaz’s intervention at the start of the second half kept River ahead as Janson looked to capitalize inside the box.
- Rosemary! River failed to extend the lead before halftime, with the rival keeper denying Lanzini on a one-on-one.
- The Boca side argued a potential foul by Paulo Díaz on Weigant near River’s goal at the start of play.
- RIVER GOAL! Enzo Pérez struck from range, the ball deflected off Rondón and found the far post, doubling the advantage for Millonario.
- Benedetto tried from the flank, but Armani parried decisively to avert a score for Boca.
- With a well-coordinated move, Herrera nearly made it 2-0 for River, testing the defense again.
- The Superclásico heated up: the stage was set for a dramatic finish as the clock moved toward the final minutes.
- Boca’s early chance: Benedetto challenged Armani in the air, but the Riverkeeper was quick off his line to snuff it out.
- River’s early approach: Herrera arrived by surprise and Romero anticipated the play well, keeping the momentum with the visitors.
- Papers, smoke and color: the teams’ entrance to the field unfolded amid a vibrant stadium atmosphere.
- There is a roar! A tremendous ovation greeted Pipa Benedetto during the pre-match build-up.
- These are River’s eleven: Franco Armani, Andrés Herrera, Leandro González Pirez, Paulo Díaz, Milton Casco; Enzo Pérez, Nicolás De La Cruz; Manuel Lanzini, Nacho Fernández, Ezequiel Barco; Salomón Rondón. Manager: Martín Demichelis
- This is Boca: Sergio Romero; Marcelo Weigandt, Bruno Valdez, Nicolás Valentini, Marcelo Saracchi; Lucas Blondel, Jorman Campuzano, Ezequiel Bullaude, Juan Ramírez; Lucas Janson, Dario Benedetto. Manager: Jorge Almirón
Double yellow for Boca: Campuzano picked up a caution for a tough foul against de la Cruz, and Valentini was booked for protests in the aftermath.
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Note: This match report summarizes the events and key periods of the game, highlighting pivotal moments, goals, and tactical setups observed during the 2023 League Cup Superclásico.