River Plate — Libertad : Match Preview and Prediction for August 22,2025

River Plate’s Dominant Form

Marcelo Gallardo is unequivocally bringing his team to its peak performance. The recent dominant 4-2 victory against Godoy Cruz in the Argentine championship served as a clear demonstration of this. This was more than just three points; it was a potent signal that the “Millionaires'” attacking machinery is operating at maximum efficiency.

Key Offensive Players Shining

Giuliano Galoppo and Sebastián Driussi both netted a brace in that fixture. These dynamic footballers are currently in scintillating form, displaying a relentless hunger for goals and possessing the ability to single-handedly determine the outcome of matches. Their current exceptional condition is a pivotal factor that Libertad will simply be unable to contain at the fortress that is the packed Monumental stadium.

Unmatched Resilience and Depth

Let’s take a look at the broader context. Over their last 28 competitive matches, River Plate has suffered only a single defeat in regular time, which occurred against Inter Milan at the Club World Cup. This remarkable record speaks volumes about their colossal resilience and formidable squad depth. Gallardo’s squad doesn’t merely participate; they consistently dominate their opponents and very rarely allow themselves to stumble.

Defensive Reinforcement

A vitally important aspect for our match prediction revolves around their defense. Lucas Martínez Quarta has made his anticipated return to the squad for this critical fixture. His comeback following an injury provides a significant enhancement to the central defensive partnership, which already appears imposing with Paulo Díaz alongside him.

First Leg Analysis and Tactical Advantage

In the initial encounter in Asunción, which concluded with a goalless 0-0 draw, we witnessed two distinct halves of football. However, it was definitively the second half that proved most telling. River completely asserted control and seized the initiative, effectively pinning the Paraguayan side deep in their own half. Only the extraordinary performance of goalkeeper Martín Silva prevented Libertad from suffering a defeat. The second-half statistics from that game are self-explanatory: River Plate unleashed 15 shots compared to a mere one from Libertad.

Libertad’s Current Struggles

The Paraguayan club is approaching this return fixture in less than optimal condition. A goalless draw in their most recent local championship match against Olimpia serves as glaring proof of their current struggles. The team is clearly experiencing significant difficulties in both creating and converting scoring opportunities, a critical deficiency ahead of their formidable trip to the Monumental stadium.

Offensive Limitations Exposed

Crucially, Libertad failed to score against River Plate even on their home turf. In the first leg, they were primarily forced into a defensive posture, managing a mere two shots on target throughout the entire match, even at home. Now, they are compelled to attack in Buenos Aires, which will necessitate them opening up their tactical setup. This aggressive approach against a team of River’s caliber is tantamount to suicidal tactics.

Tactical Dilemma and Form

While coach Sergio Aquino strategically rested several key players in the match against Olimpia to conserve their energy for the Copa Libertadores, the question remains: will this be sufficient? Libertad currently does not exhibit the qualities of a team capable of dictating terms or imposing its play on the Argentine giant, particularly when playing away from home. Their current sixth-place standing in the Paraguayan Clausura, trailing the league leader by eight points, only further substantiates their unconvincing form.

The Unenviable Tactical Task

Libertad’s tactical challenge is almost insurmountable. They are in a position where they absolutely must score, which inherently means pushing forward and inevitably leaving significant open spaces behind them. This is precisely the scenario that River Plate’s formidable attacking line, spearheaded by the red-hot Driussi and Galoppo, is eagerly anticipating and ready to exploit.