Rodrigo Aliendro and Manuel Lanzini, the two River players who played a key role in the victory against Libertad

El Millonario defeated Libertad and brought three very important points from Paraguay, thinking about future classification to the round of 16. But beyond the numerical and the standings, River’s victory in Paraguay left some good feelings due to the team’s performance in the first half and some good results in the second half.

One of the high points in Martín Demichelis’ team was once again Rodrigo Aliendro, who was coming off a weak game against Boca. The former Colón had a first stage that was close to perfection, in his double task as a mixed midfielder. It was very important for high pressing and to recover the ball quickly when Libertad tried to come out from the back. And when it came time to play, he was fine and precise with the ball.

Rodrigo Aliendro was close to crowning his great first half with a great goalbut Rodrigo Morinigo blocked a shot that was going down, cornered and that had a 1-0 goal. Minutes later, he provided the assist for Pablo Solari’s goal, with a low and precise cross. In the second half and after being reprimanded, Martín Demichelis decided to replace him as a precaution. He received loud applause from the River fans present at the Defensores del Chaco.

As for the footballers who entered and brought freshness to the team, the appearance of Manuel Lanzini is another great news for River. The midfielder entered precisely to play in place of Rodrigo Aliendro, almost like a double five, but looser and closer to gestation.

At a time when the Millionaire seemed to have lost control of the game and the ball, Manu brought a little more pause to the game and lowered the pace that Libertad wanted to impose. In addition, he had the judgment to handle some counterattacks and actively participated in the winning goal, scored by Franco Mastantuono. Little by little, the best version of the footballer who once stood out in the Premier League is reappearing.