River Plate vs Deportivo Tachira Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews in this Copa Libertadores contest. River Plate can win their group in the Copa Libertadores for the second time in three appearances by defeating Deportivo Tachira on Thursday at Estadio Monumental. Read on for our free predictions and tips.
Copa Libertadores | Group Stage – May 31, 2024 at 1am UK at Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti
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River Plate vs Deportivo Tachira Predictions
Copa Libertadores Group Stage Finale: River Plate Aim to Dominate Against Deportivo Tachira
Key Stats
– River Plate have won their last eight home group stage matches in the Copa Libertadores.
– Deportivo Tachira have failed to score in the second half of any Copa Libertadores match this year.
– Miguel Borja is River Plate’s top scorer in the Copa Libertadores, with three goals.
On Thursday, River Plate will host Deportivo Tachira at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires for their final group stage match in the 2024 Copa Libertadores. River Plate aim to secure the top spot in their group, while Deportivo Tachira’s campaign ends at the group stage. This match will be crucial for both teams, albeit for different reasons, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter.
Match Preview
River Plate have had a stellar run in this year’s Copa Libertadores, securing their place in the knockout stages for the tenth consecutive season. Their dominance in the group stage has been evident, with an impressive record that includes a comfortable 2-0 victory against Club Libertad on matchday five. This victory ensures that only an unlikely combination of results— a defeat and a significant win by Nacional—could prevent them from finishing first in the group.
The Argentine giants have an excellent home record, winning their last eight Libertadores group stage matches at the Estadio Monumental. Their last home defeat in this phase came against Fluminense in May 2021. Additionally, River Plate have not conceded in their last three home matches across all competitions, underscoring their defensive solidity. Martin Demichelis’s men are well-positioned to end the group phase unbeaten, mirroring their performance in the 2022 edition.
Deportivo Tachira, on the other hand, have struggled throughout the group stage. For the eighth consecutive season, no Venezuelan side will advance to the knockout stages. Tachira’s journey has been marked by poor performances, including a recent 1-0 defeat to Nacional, which sealed their early exit. If they fail to win on Thursday, it will be their first group stage campaign without a victory since 2015.
Their away record is particularly concerning, with three consecutive losses in the group stage and a broader four-match winless streak in all competitions. Tachira have also failed to score in the second half of any Libertadores match this year, highlighting their offensive struggles. Historically, they have never won a Copa Libertadores match on Argentine soil, and their last visit to the Estadio Monumental in 2004 ended in a 2-2 draw.
Team Analysis
River Plate
River Plate’s campaign has been characterised by a balanced approach in both attack and defence. With 10 goals scored and only three conceded in five matches, they have demonstrated efficiency on both ends of the pitch. Their offensive strategy revolves around high ball possession (54.6%) and accurate passing, particularly in the opposition half. They average 18.2 shots per game, with 7.0 on target, reflecting their relentless attacking approach.
Key players include Miguel Borja, who has been instrumental with three goals in the tournament, and Franco Armani, who has kept three clean sheets. The team’s defensive setup is robust, conceding only 0.6 goals per game and maintaining five clean sheets in the group stage. However, they will miss Ramiro Funes Mori, Manuel Lanzini, and Ignacio Fernandez due to injuries, which might test their depth.
Deportivo Tachira
Deportivo Tachira’s performance has been disappointing, with significant struggles in both attack and defence. They have scored only two goals and conceded nine in five matches, highlighting their inefficiencies. Their offensive play lacks potency, averaging just 6.2 shots per game with 1.8 on target. Defensively, they have been vulnerable, conceding 1.8 goals per game and failing to keep a clean sheet.
Their strategy often involves counter-attacks, given their lower average possession (43.4%). However, they have not been able to convert these opportunities effectively. The absence of Yanniel Hernandez, due to suspension, further weakens their already fragile midfield. Players like Jefre Vargas and Carlos Calzadilla, who were introduced recently, will need to step up to provide any resistance against a formidable River Plate side.
Key Player Duels
The match could be decided by several crucial duels on the field. One significant battle will be between River Plate’s forward Miguel Borja and Tachira’s defender Jean Gutierrez. Borja’s clinical finishing and movement will test Gutierrez’s defensive capabilities and positioning.
In midfield, the contest between River Plate’s Rodrigo Aliendro and Tachira’s Maurice Cova will be vital. Aliendro’s ability to control the game and distribute the ball will be crucial for River Plate, while Cova’s defensive work and transitions will be key to Tachira’s counter-attacks.
Expected Gameplay and Strategies
River Plate are likely to adopt their usual aggressive approach, focusing on high possession and quick transitions. Their strategy will involve pressing high up the pitch, using their superior passing accuracy to dominate the game and create numerous scoring opportunities. The home advantage and their excellent record at the Estadio Monumental will play a significant role in their gameplay.
Deportivo Tachira, in contrast, may adopt a more defensive strategy, focusing on soaking up pressure and looking to exploit counter-attacks. Given their need to avoid a heavy defeat, they might sit deep and look to frustrate River Plate, relying on set pieces and quick breaks to create chances.
Lineups and Tactical Commentary
River Plate: Armani; Sant’Anna, Gonzalez Pirez, Diaz, Casco; Fernandez, Fonseca, Aliendro; Echeverri; Borja, Solari
River Plate’s lineup reflects a balance of defensive stability and attacking flair. The backline, led by Diaz and Casco, will be tasked with neutralising Tachira’s counter-attacks, while the midfield trio of Fernandez, Fonseca, and Aliendro will control the tempo. The attacking duo of Borja and Solari, supported by Echeverri, will look to penetrate Tachira’s defence with their pace and creativity.
Deportivo Tachira: Camargo; Vivas, Gutierrez, N. Hernandez; Vargas, Chacon, Cova, Saggiomo; Uribe, Mendoza; J. Hernandez
Deportivo Tachira’s probable formation indicates a defensive setup with a focus on counter-attacks. The defence will need to be organised and disciplined to withstand River Plate’s pressure. The midfield, particularly Cova and Saggiomo, will be crucial in breaking up play and launching quick counter-attacks. Hernandez and Mendoza will need to capitalise on any opportunities that come their way.
Betting Angles and Trends
Analysing the provided data highlights several betting opportunities. River Plate’s strong form and Tachira’s defensive issues make a home win and over 2.5 goals a solid bet. Additionally, the likelihood of River Plate scoring first and their high shot volume suggest backing them for early dominance and exceeding 6.5 shots on target.
Predictions
Best Bet: River Plate -2 to Win
Given their superior form, home advantage, and overall dominance in the group stage, River Plate are clear favourites to win this match. Their robust defence and potent attack should be enough to secure a solid victory against a struggling Deportivo Tachira side.
Correct Score Prediction: River Plate 3-0 Deportivo Tachira
Considering River Plate’s attacking prowess and Tachira’s defensive vulnerabilities, a 3-0 victory for River Plate seems plausible. River Plate have the capability to score multiple goals while maintaining a clean sheet, especially given Tachira’s offensive struggles.
Goalscorer Prediction: Miguel Borja to Score
Miguel Borja, with his impressive goal-scoring record, is a strong candidate to find the net in this match. His ability to finish chances and his recent form make him likely to score against Tachira’s weak defence.
Corner Prediction: River Plate to Win More Corners
River Plate’s attacking style and higher average possession suggest they will earn more corners than Deportivo Tachira. With an average of 4.8 corners per game, they are likely to dominate this aspect of the game, creating additional scoring opportunities from set pieces.
Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target for River Plate Over 6.5
River Plate’s offensive strategy and their average of 7.0 shots on target per game suggest they will exceed 6.5 shots on target in this match. Given Tachira’s defensive lapses and River Plate’s need to secure a convincing win, this is a plausible outcome.
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