Overview
- Gallardo unveiled a 5-3-2 only hours before kickoff at La Bombonera, naming an unexpected starting XI.
- He started Gonzalo Montiel and Sebastián Driussi despite reports they were not fully fit.
- Following the defeat, he skipped the post-match press conference and left the pitch in silence.
- River supporters vented on social media with calls for his resignation, criticizing the plan and selections.
- The setback tightens River’s route to the 2026 Copa Libertadores, with the visit to Vélez highlighted as a last chance to keep hopes alive.