Marcelo Gallardo's self-criticism, after the beating that River received in Brazil

The recent defeat of River against Atlético Mineiro in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semi-finals has left millionaire fans with the feeling that their team was not the same one they had seen in previous matches.

The 3 to 0 against in Belo Horizonte not only calls into question the ability of River to reach the final, but also highlights the deficiencies that Marcelo Gallardo has tried to correct during the season.

The match began with a tense atmosphere full of expectations. Atlético Mineiro, led by Gabriel Milito, was dominant from the start, taking advantage of every opportunity that was presented to them. Deyverson, the Brazilian forward, was the star of the match, scoring two goals and assisting the third.

The defense of River which had been one of their strengths, was vulnerable and could not contain the attacks of the home team. Marcelo Gallardo, in the press conference after the game, acknowledged that his team was not as tough and committed as they wanted to be.

Marcelo Gallardo's self-criticism, after the beating that River received in Brazil

“We weren’t the tough team we wanted to be. They scored very easy goals for us. Now all that remains is to play a perfect match to reverse this result and get rid of this anger and sadness. There is no other choice,” said the coach.

The defensive inattention of River It was a recurring theme during the game. The three-back line, which had been a key strategy in previous matches, offered too many gaps for Atlético Mineiro’s attack to take advantage of.

Marcelo Gallardo's self-criticism, after the beating that River received in Brazil

Inability

The lack of depth and the inability to maintain possession of the ball were also contributing factors to the defeat. In the midfield, River He couldn’t find his usual rhythm. The lack of coordination and constant pressure from the Brazilian team prevented elMillo from having control of the game.

Replacement attempts by Gallardo, such as the inclusion of Lanzini, Meza, Villagra, Solari and Bareiro, failed to change the course of the match. The lack of experience and the tension of the moment meant that River could not recover. Paulinho’s goal, which came after a rebound off Paulo Díaz, sealed the fate of the Argentine team.

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