Atletico Mineiro reach Libertadores final despite dramatic game with River Plate

Atletico Mineiro are through to the final of the Copa Libertadores after a goalless draw against River Plate on Tuesday (3-0 on aggregate).

With a dominant win in the first leg, the Brazilian club were in charge as they entered the crazy atmosphere they expected, and it was crazy.

River Plate fans flooded the Estadio Mas Monumental with fireworks, torches and deafening cheers to rally their side to a historic breakthrough. The scenes sparked debate as to whether it was the best entrance to the football stadium.

The hosts used this support to control the second leg but their performance was below par. The Argentinian club registered a staggering 16 shots to one in the opening 45 minutes, but only two efforts hit the target.

Meanwhile, keeper Franco Armani was forced into action several times to thwart Daverson and saved an effort on the line against the run of play.

Time was in Atletico Mineiro’s favor and they put pressure on River Plate in the second half. Oddly enough, statistically, the hosts dominated the match, who took a total of 35 shots and made five substitutions.

But by the final whistle, it was a sad end as Atlético Mineiro’s defensive plan prevented any attempts to spark a comeback. Goaltender Everson saved all six of River Plate’s shots, led by Maximiliano Meza and Claudio Echeverri.

Now the Brazilian team will meet Peñarol or Botafogo in the final.