Club Atlético River Plate secured an important 3-2 away win against Banfield on Saturday, August 30, marking the dugout debut of manager Leo Ponzio. The victory comes after their Copa Sudamericana exit and places the team 11th in the Liga Profesional Argentina with 7 points, according to verified data as of August 31. ABC Color Deportes reported the match, where Ángel Correa and Thiago Almada were key figures for the Millonarios.
How did River Plate respond after the Copa Sudamericana?
The loss to Independiente Santa Fe in the Copa Sudamericana was a hard blow. However, the response in the domestic league was immediate. With Leo Ponzio newly appointed, the team showed character to win a tough match in the south. This victory is part of a positive run of three wins and two draws in their last five league games. The team now has a goal difference of -1, having scored 7 and conceded 8 this season.
Who were the key performers in the win?
Ángel Correa had a standout performance, being fundamental in building River Plate's attacking play. His link-up in midfield created constant danger. Thiago Almada, meanwhile, was responsible for converting chances and scoring one of the winning goals. Collective solidity allowed them to overcome a Banfield side that, despite the defeat, made the match difficult until the end. The 2-3 final score reflects an end-to-end contest.
What happened elsewhere in the league this round?
While River Plate took three points, other teams were also in action. Boca Juniors beat Lanús 1-0 and league leaders Argentinos Juniors won 2-1 against Aldosivi. River Plate now sits nine points behind the leaders. In other results, Riestra and Vélez drew 1-1, as did Huracán and Estudiantes de Río Cuarto. Atlético Tucumán and Belgrano, and Talleres and Central Córdoba, finished goalless. The latter draw came after Jorge Sampaoli resigned as Talleres manager. Gimnasia de La Plata, meanwhile, won 1-2 at Rosario Central.
What is the next test for River Plate?
The schedule now sees River Plate host Independiente Rivadavia on September 6. It will be a match at the Monumental against an opponent currently sixth in the table. This fixture is a key opportunity to continue the positive run and close the gap in the standings. Preparation for this challenge has already begun, focusing on maintaining the solidity shown in the last match. Fans can follow the squad's progress on our squad page.
With this win, Leo Ponzio starts his tenure on the right foot. The team showed it can put setbacks behind them and focus on their Liga Profesional objectives. The next round, against a direct rival, will test this recovery in front of a home crowd.
