In a thrilling encounter at the Estadio El Mundialista in Mendoza, River Plate triumphed over Unión in the penalty shootout, earning a spot in the quarterfinals of the Copa Argentina. The match ended goalless at 0-0 after the standard 90 minutes, leading to the decisive penalties.
Although Lucas Martínez Quarta missed his penalty kick, River Plate’s Juan Fernando Quintero, Miguel Ángel Borja, Facundo Colidio, and Gonzalo Montiel converted their opportunities successfully. On the other hand, Unión’s Lucas Gamba and Valentín Fascendini were unable to find the back of the net during the shootout.
Franco Armani was the standout player of the match, demonstrating his exceptional skill by saving two penalties. Matías Tagliamonte, Unión’s goalkeeper, also impressed with four crucial stops.
Unión’s coach, Leonardo Madelón, opted for a 4-4-2 formation, featuring Matías Tagliamonte in goal; a defensive line of Lautaro Vargas, Alex Maizon Rodriguez, Valentín Fascendini, and Mateo Del Blanco; a midfield comprising Julián Palacios, Mauricio Martínez, Mauro Pittón, and Franco Fragapane; and a forward duo of Marcelo Estigarribia and Cristian Tarragona.
In contrast, River Plate’s Marcelo Gallardo fielded his team in the same 4-4-2 setup, with Franco Armani guarding the net; a backline consisting of Gonzalo Montiel, Lucas Martínez Quarta, Lautaro Rivero, and Marcos Acuña; midfielders Giuliano Galoppo, Enzo Pérez, Kevin Castaño, and Ignacio Fernández; and strikers Maximiliano Salas and Sebastián Driussi.
The match was officiated by referee Andrés Gariano.
Despite facing a formidable challenge, River Plate emerged victorious in the penalty shootout against Unión, solidifying their advancement to the quarterfinals.
Substitutions for Unión
69’ 2T – Cristian Tarragona came off for Lucas Gamba.
74’ 2T – Julián Palacios was replaced by Augusto Solari and Giuliano Galoppo by Santiago Lencina.
81’ 2T – Franco Fragapane was substituted for Nicolás Palavecino and Marcelo Estigarribia for Agustín Colazo.
Substitutions for River Plate
64’ 2T – Ignacio Fernández was replaced by Juan Fernando Quintero.
82’ 2T – Enzo Pérez came off for Juan Carlos Portillo, Maximiliano Salas for Facundo Colidio, and Sebastián Driussi for Miguel Ángel Borja.