Match Overview
The clash between Huracan and River Plate on March 13, 2026, at Estadio Tomás Adolfo Ducó posed critical implications for both sides in the Liga Profesional Argentina. Huracan entered the match in 13th place, grappling with inconsistency, while River Plate stood strong in 3rd, chasing the league leaders. With both teams needing to bolster their respective campaigns, the stakes were undeniably high.
Coach Frank Darío Kudelka of Huracan deployed a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing high pressing and quick transitions. His squad aimed to exploit River Plate’s defensive frailties, particularly on the flanks. Conversely, River Plate, under the guidance of Martín Demichelis, opted for a more fluid 4-2-3-1 setup. This allowed them to maintain possession while launching rapid counterattacks, a strategy that has reaped rewards throughout the season.
From the outset, River Plate asserted control of the match, moving the ball with confidence. Their passing accuracy and intent set the tone early, with the team looking to capitalize on any mistakes Huracan might make. The opening exchanges revealed a palpable intensity on the pitch. Early yellow cards and physical challenges hinted at the rivalry between the two sides and the significance of this contest in the league.
First Half Action
As the first half unfolded, River Plate quickly found their rhythm. The dynamic Sebastián Driussi opened the scoring in the 27th minute, displaying excellent awareness and technique. Driussi, receiving a perfectly timed pass, evaded a defender and fired a thunderous strike from the edge of the area into the bottom corner, marking his 6th goal of the season. This goal set the crowd into a frenzy and put River Plate ahead.
Huracan's response was immediate, as they ramped up their attacking efforts. However, their efforts were frequently thwarted by River Plate’s disciplined defense. At times, Huracan looked to exploit the spaces left by River’s full-backs. But defensive stalwarts like Paulo Díaz and Gonzalo Montiel ensured that no clear chance materialized.
The tactical battle intensified, with Huracan’s midfielders struggling to keep pace with River's swift transitions. Yellow cards began to stack up for Huracan, with Federico Pereyra and Lucas Gil receiving cautions within minutes of each other. This indicated their frustration at being unable to contain River Plate's fluid movement.
In a surprising twist just before halftime, Huracan’s Juan Caicedo earned a penalty after being brought down in the box. The home fans roared as Caicedo stepped up to take the crucial spot-kick. Caicedo calmly slotted the ball past River goalkeeper Franco Armani in stoppage time, sending the teams into the break level at 1-1. The atmosphere shifted; Huracan had weathered the early storm and capitalized on their first major opportunity.
Emotions ran high in the locker rooms, with River Plate reflecting on their missed chances. They had dominated possession but failed to convert their superiority into goals. Huracan, on the other hand, found renewed belief from their equalizer, ready to challenge River Plate again in the second half.
Second Half Drama
The second half began with both teams eager to assert their authority. River Plate continued to dictate possession, but Huracan displayed a more resolute defensive structure. Coach Kudelka’s adjustments appeared effective as they sought to stifle River Plate’s attacking flow. At this point, the game had taken on a more cautious tone, with both managers weighing their options carefully.
River Plate made their first substitution in the 46th minute, introducing Ignacio Fernández for Driussi, who had exhibited fatigue. Fernández’s creativity aimed to unlock a stubborn Huracan defense. Likewise, Kudelka brought on A. Martínez to bolster Huracan’s midfield, hoping to shift the momentum back in their favor.
In the 85th minute, River Plate earned a penalty when Huracan's defense committed a foul. Gonzalo Montiel, known for his composure under pressure, stepped up to take the spot-kick. He sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, converting the penalty and restoring River Plate's lead at 2-1.
Momentum swung heavily in River Plate’s favor, and Huracan struggled to recover from the psychological blow of conceding the late penalty. In a dramatic turn of events, Huracan was reduced to ten men when Lucas Carrizo received a straight red card for a reckless challenge just minutes after the penalty. Simultaneously, River Plate’s F. Colidio was also dismissed, resulting in a tense end to the match.
Despite being a man down, Huracan sought a late equalizer. They threw bodies forward, but River's disciplined backline held firm. The final whistle blew, sealing a hard-fought victory for River Plate. The away side celebrated, having navigated through a stern test.
Key Performances
Sebastián Driussi emerged as a pivotal figure for River Plate, scoring the opener and driving the attack throughout the first half. His ability to drift into space made him a constant threat. With 7 goals in 10 league matches this season, Driussi is establishing himself as one of the league's standout forwards.
Gonzalo Montiel was also crucial, not only for his defensive interventions but also for scoring the decisive penalty. Consistently effective going forward, he contributed to River’s attacking play while maintaining a strong presence defensively. Montiel's versatility and composure under pressure make him an asset to the team.
From Huracan, Juan Caicedo's performance stood out, particularly for his penalty conversion. He earned the penalty himself and was a nuisance to River’s defense with his pace and movement. His goal demonstrates the potential he holds for being a match-winner for Huracan.
Finally, Franco Armani's contributions in goal were vital for River Plate. Despite conceding one goal, his decisive saves throughout the match, particularly from Huracan's free-kicks and crosses, exhibited his high level of performance. Armani was instrumental in maintaining River's composure during critical moments.
Tactical Analysis
The match hinged on River Plate's ability to exploit space and create quick combinations in the final third. Their 4-2-3-1 formation allowed them to outnumber Huracan's midfield, providing control over possession. However, they struggled to break down Huracan’s organized defense until Driussi’s strike opened the scoring.
Conversely, Huracan’s tactical approach centered on physicality and pressing. Their 4-3-3 setup aimed to disrupt River Plate’s build-up play, resulting in an array of yellow cards as they sought to assert their dominance. Despite their initial struggles, the equalizing penalty showcased their resilience and ability to capitalize on fleeting opportunities.
Managerial decisions played a crucial role in the outcome. Kudelka’s substitutions did provide fresh legs, yet the continued physicality led to their downfall with Carrizo's red card. On the other hand, Demichelis's late introduction of fresh attacking options in the second half allowed River Plate to regain control when it mattered most.
Ultimately, River Plate's ability to maintain composure during the critical moments and capitalize on set-piece opportunities proved decisive.
Looking Ahead
The result leaves River Plate in 3rd place, solidifying their position among the title contenders. Their recent form suggests a trajectory towards the top of the table, with their next fixture against a mid-table side offering a chance to build momentum. Rivals Boca Juniors will be watching closely, as the league race intensifies.
For Huracan, the loss complicates their fight for consistency as they remain in 13th place. They must regroup quickly as they face another challenging opponent in their next match. Despite the setbacks, Kudelka's side displayed moments of potential that, if harnessed correctly, could lead to better performances in the coming weeks.
This match serves as a reminder of the fine margins in football. River Plate demonstrated their capability to endure pressure and capitalize on key moments, while Huracan must learn to maintain composure in crucial situations. Both teams have a unique narrative unfolding this season, with plenty more action awaited in the remaining fixtures of the Liga Profesional Argentina.
