On the fourth matchday of the 2023 Copa Libertadores group stage, Sporting Cristal will welcome River Plate at the National Stadium in Lima. This clash pits the Peruvian hosts, hungry for a strong continental statement, against the Argentine powerhouse that cannot afford any missteps as the phase unfolds. The setting and the stakes suggest a tense evening where every possession and decision could influence the table as the round nears its conclusion.
Sporting Cristal arrives in good spirits after a 1-0 win over The Strongest on the third matchday, a victory powered by a goal from Jhilmar Lora. Under the guidance of Tiago Nunes, the Celeste Machine sits third in the standings with three points, aiming to turn home support into a springboard for progression. The team is focused on steady defense and sharp counterattacks, knowing that clean sheets and disciplined midfield work are vital in this group stage phase. (Goal)
River Plate, meanwhile, faced a heavy setback in their most recent Copa Libertadores game, suffering a 5-1 defeat to Fluminense despite Lucas Beltran finding the net. Martin Demichelis’ squad currently sits at the bottom of the table with three points and will need a measured, relentless performance away from home to reverse their fortunes. The challenge is clear: restore confidence, tighten organization at the back, and exploit any opportunities to take control of the match against a difficult rival. (Goal)
Copa Libertadores 2023 schedule and matchups—what to expect as the group stage advances
WHEN IS IT?
The exact date and kickoff time are set for the fourth round of the group stage, with both teams eager to leave points on the field and shape the remainder of the campaign. Fans across the region are watching closely as the tables begin to clarify which sides will push toward the knockout rounds and which will need a late surge. (Goal)
HOW TO WATCH ON TV
The encounter between the Celeste Machine and the Millionaires will be broadcast in Argentina and Chile by Fox Sports. For the rest of South America and Mexico, ESPN will carry the action. In the United States, viewers will find the match on Being Sports, offering comprehensive coverage to fans in the North American market. (Goal)
HOW TO WATCH BY STREAMING
The game will be available for streaming across South America and Mexico through Star+. Star+ is the streaming hub that brings ESPN sports and live events into one place, alongside a broad selection of shows, films, and local productions. With Star+, fans can catch the match live, revisit key moments, and enjoy a broad catalog of entertainment in addition to the sports action. (Goal)
Star+ provides a familiar portfolio for sports lovers, combining live events with value through a user friendly interface and on demand access to favored programming. The streaming option is particularly convenient for fans who want to watch on various devices and at their preferred times. (Goal)
WHO REPORTS AND WHO COMMENTATES?
Media teams and commentators involved in the coverage include recognized analysts and broadcasters who bring tactical insights and on field observations to viewers, ensuring a comprehensive match experience for fans tuning in from different regions. (Goal)
FORMATIONS
SPORTING CRISTAL
Details of the lineup and tactical shape will be announced ahead of kickoff as the club confirms its XI and the roles players will assume in a system designed to maximize balance between defense and attacking transitions. (Goal)
RIVER PLATE
River Plate will also unveil its starting setup and approach, with attention to how the side adapts to the away environment and the tactical demands presented by their Peruvian opponents. (Goal)
Notes: All information is provided for fans and observers eager to follow the competition with accuracy and context. The data above reflects the expected framework of the teams and the event as reported by contemporary outlets. (Goal)