River Plate vs Atlético-MG Prediction: River Plate has a mountain to climb

River Plate and Atlético Mineiro will meet again a week later to decide who will play in the Copa Libertadores final. The Brazilians won 3-0 in the first leg, securing an advantage that few expected. The final of the competition will take place at the Monumental, River's stadium, and the Argentinians won't give up so easily.

The Stripe hasn't won in five games, with the extra problem that the team has only scored one goal during this negative run. Despite having to score at least three goals against Atlético Mineiro, Marcelo Gallardo, River's coach, is confident that the team will be more effective in the second leg. Gallardo has won two Copa Libertadores as River coach in 2015 and 2018, so he's used to these decisive matches. Nothing is impossible in football, but it will be difficult for the Millionaires to turn things around. It will be crucial to score at least one goal in the first half.

The Miners will have to deal with River's pressure and the Argentinian fans who will try to push their team to get a comeback. The lead is comfortable, but things could get complicated if River scores early. Gabriel Milito knows it's essential to reach half-time without conceding a goal and will probably field a side capable of defending all over the pitch. Deyverson was the hero in the first leg, scoring two goals, but he may well stay on the bench for a more defensive-minded player. The Rooster hasn't lost to an Argentinian club in the Copa Libertadores for 14 games but could lose this one, as long as it's by less than a three-goal margin. Atlético won its only Copa Libertadores in 2013 and is close to reaching the final again.

River Plate must win by at least three goals to reach the penalty shootout, so it needs to play a perfect game. The Brazilians are the favorites to reach the final and could even lose in Buenos Aires. The lead Atlético got in the first leg will probably be enough, but anything is possible in football. I'm going to bet on River winning the game.