This Time, They Won

Every time River and Boca play each other, it brings a special feeling to my soul. Ever since I was little, I would love seeing my favorite team win the match. As I grew up, I saw many games be won on last minute goals, tactics, and pure luck. What I witnessed last night was mix of luck with tactic. I was determined that River would beat Boca in the first Superclasico of the year but after hearing Ariel Ortega’s remark being replayed over and over again prior to the game, I had that unlucky feeling. Ariel’s commented on Diario Ole, Argentina’s leading sport newspaper, that River would “..walk all over Boca”. Last night, it was the complete opposite.

In front of a huge multitude of fans from both teams, River lost to Boca Juniors by two goals, the final result being 2-0. I was disappointed because I felt really happy seeing River’s new acquisitions on the field, playing for the first time. With Abreu, Archubi, and Cabral on the field, I was excited to see these new players in action. Well, I was disillusioned. Indeed all these players had a good match, but the lack of effort on the defensive overshadowed their efforts. River continues to suffer when the ball is the air, and possession is almost impossible when the ball is centered or lobbied across the field. Ariel Ortega played a wonderful match and he assisted in River being the dominant team in the game.

Boca had their magical player, Riquelme, who was unnoticeable by Ponzio’s covering, but when there is a free kick, Riquelme indeed has the special shot. Boca’s first goal came by Battaglia’s shot that found River’s Carrizo unable to do nothing. Boca’s second goal was very controversial as Palermo grabbed the top bar to head the ball in the goal. Why is it that Palermo always has to create controversial goals and why is it that the refs turn the blind eye? Nonetheless, the game was lost when the second goal came in but a nasty sour taste filled my mouth.

On a positive note, it was at least three years that Boca did not defeat River so for those who enjoy Boca, that’s for you. We will face Boca once again before the preseason is over by the end of following week and I’m confident that we will win. Or am I?