River Plate march into quarter-finals with emphatic win over Barracas Central

BUENOS AIRES: River Plate secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Barracas Central on Monday at the Mas Monumental stadium, booking their spot in the quarter-finals of the Argentine Apertura tournament.

The home side struck early through Paulo Díaz, who found the net from close range in the 12th minute. River doubled their lead just before halftime when youngster Franco Mastantuono teed up Ignacio Fernández, who slotted home with confidence.

Fernández, returning to the starting lineup, expressed his satisfaction post-match. “I was back as a starter, and I took it in stride, eager to keep improving,” he told TNT. “No one likes to be out, but when it’s my turn, I try to do my part and make the most of the moment.”

Under Marcelo Gallardo’s guidance, River dominated proceedings in the second half and nearly made it 3-0 when Mastantuono assisted Fabricio Bustos after a rapid counter-attack, only for the goal to be ruled out.

Still, the performance was more than enough to see River Plate into the final eight, as they continue their quest for domestic silverware.