River Plate 0–0 Aldosivi Mar del Plata: Copa Argentina Drama Ends in Penalties

River Plate and Aldosivi Mar del Plata battled to a goalless draw in their Copa Argentina encounter at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes. The Primera División powerhouse dominated proceedings but could not find a way past a heroic Aldosivi defence. The match finished 0–0 after 90 minutes, sending the tie to a shoot‑out.

Match Overview

River Plate, one of the favourites to win the Copa Argentina, controlled the ball from the first minute. Their fluid passing and movement created several openings, but Aldosivi’s goalkeeper and centre‑backs were in outstanding form. The first half saw wave after wave of River attacks repelled.

Key Moments

• 15th minute: River’s winger cut inside and curled a shot towards the far post, only for the ‘keeper to tip it onto the post.
• 29th minute: A brilliant through‑ball split the Aldosivi defence, but the striker’s shot was smothered at the near post.
• 44th minute: Aldosivi had their only real chance of the half – a counter‑attack that ended with a shot straight at the River goalkeeper.
• 57th minute: A long‑range thunderbolt from River’s midfielder rattled the crossbar, the closest the team came to scoring.
• 81st minute: Aldosivi’s goalkeeper made a stunning save, diving full length to push a header wide.

Tactical Analysis

River Plate set up in a 4‑2‑3‑1, looking to overload the final third with creative midfielders. Aldosivi responded with a compact 4‑4‑2, dropping deep and trusting their organisation. River’s full‑backs pushed high, but Aldosivi’s wingers tracked back diligently. The lower‑division side also used time‑wasting and tactical fouls to break River’s rhythm.

Standout Performers

• Aldosivi goalkeeper (Man of the Match): Made six saves, commanded his box, and kept a clean sheet against one of the best attacks in Argentina.
• River Plate centre‑back: Composed in possession and snuffed out the rare Aldosivi threat.

In the penalty shoot‑out, River Plate’s quality told as they converted all four spot‑kicks, while Aldosivi missed one. River advanced 4–2 on penalties, but Aldosivi earned widespread praise for their courageous performance. The Copa Argentina continues to provide the underdog stories that make it so beloved.