Looking for River Plate vs Boca Juniors prediction and betting tips? You’re at the right place! We’re now going to discuss what might be the biggest South American game in the century, which, peculiarly, is to take place in Europe.
Often dubbed the biggest rivalry on the planet, the Superclasico is always full of excitements. But, this time, it might be even more thrilling. Why? Because this is the first time ever that River Plate and their arch-rival Boca Juniors meet in the final of Copa Libertadores.
The first part of the doubleheader ended 2:2 when Boca were the hosts. But, because of hooligan riots, the second match was delayed and eventually moved to another continent! The big game therefore is played in Spain at Santiago Bernabeu! So, let’s see who’s gonna win the trophy on Sunday evening!
River Plate
If you take a look at the squads of these two teams, you will see that the total value of River Plate players is much lower than of their ancient rival. Still, River did show they can outplay Boca on several occasions in 2018. Actually, before the Copa Libertadores game at La Bomboniera a month ago, River beat Boca 3 times in a row, conceding no goals along the way.
What’s got to worry them ahead of the match at Santiago Bernabeu is that their recent form hasn’t been impressive. They won only 2 games out of previous 5. Sure, they did play 2:2 with Boca in a match played at Boca’s turf, but the hosts were the dominating side in that game.
In fact, River Plate were very lucky not to lose that match. The equalizer they scored for 2:2 was actually an own goal given by Boca’s defender. Furthermore, Boca’s strikers had some really good chanced in the last couple of minutes of the game, but failed to turn them into goals.
All considered, River Plate cannot be considered the favorites for winning this game, particularly because it’s played at a neutral location. But, they don’t need to win it. With two goals scored as the visiting team, River would win the trophy even with a 0:0 or 1:1 draw. So, it’s up to Boca to attack from the very first moment.
Boca Juniors
They have a fantastic team, there’s no doubt about that. Still, they haven’t been showing it too much this season. At least not till recently. But, in the last couple of weeks, Boca did really great. They won 3 and drew 2 games out of last 5, which is a pretty decent score.
Of course, that doesn’t matter too much now, when they playing the game of their lives. They need the nerves of steel to do well in this match. And by well, I mean beat River Plate. The good news for them is that their attack has been their strongest weapon. And that’s where they have some really experienced players, who know and love to play big games.
I’m talking, of course, about Carlos Tevez and Dario Benedetto, but we mustn’t forget to mention Boca’s best player. Cristian Pavon. He got injured in the first match with River, but now seems fit and ready to play. Maybe not from the very start, but he is expected to feature at some point.
Team News
River Plate absentees:
- Ignacio Scocco (injury)
Boca Juniors absentees:
- Frank Fabra (injury)
- Cristian Pavon (doubtful)
Possible Lineups
River Plate
Armani – Maidana, Pinola, Lucas Martinez, Montiel, Casco – Perez, Palacios, Zuculini, Quintero – Pratto
Boca Juniors
Andrada – Magallan, Izquierdoz, Jara, Olaza – Barrios, Perez, Gago – Villa, Abila, Tevez
River Plate vs Boca Juniors Prediction
Boca has better and more experienced players than River and I think that’s going to be their crucial advantage. Sure, we may see River striking back, but in my opinion, Boca are closer to getting the trophy.
River Plate vs Boca Juniors Betting Tips
- Boca Juniors @3.60 (bet365)