📰 River Plate Defeats San Martín 2–0 in Apertura 2025

Buenos Aires, Argentina – February 22, 2025 – River Plate extended their unbeaten run in the Torneo Apertura 2025 with a solid 2–0 win over San Martín de San Juan at the Estadio Monumental.

After a tense first half where San Martín created chances and forced key saves from goalkeeper Franco Armani, River broke the deadlock in the second half. Miguel Borja scored in the 56th minute with a composed finish, and just 13 minutes later, Franco Mastantuono, the 16-year-old wonderkid, doubled the lead to secure victory.

With the result, River Plate sits at the top of Group B with 15 points, while San Martín remains near the bottom with only 3 points.

Midfielder Enzo Pérez highlighted the importance of improvement despite the win:

“Beyond the victory, which is very important, we must keep improving in our game and in who we are.”

Under Marcelo Gallardo’s leadership, River has conceded just one goal in seven matches, strengthening their case as title contenders in 2025.

🔴⚪ River fans believe this could be the start of another championship run.

⚽ River Plate Beats San Martín 2–0: Borja and Mastantuono Shine in Apertura 2025

Buenos Aires, Argentina – River Plate continued their unbeaten run in the Torneo Apertura 2025 with a 2–0 victory over San Martín de San Juan on February 22, 2025 at the Estadio Monumental. Goals from Miguel Borja and rising star Franco Mastantuono sealed the win, keeping Marcelo Gallardo’s squad firmly at the top of Group B.

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🔥 Match Summary

The first half was a tense battle, with San Martín surprising many by pressing high and disrupting River Plate’s passing rhythm. Goalkeeper Franco Armani was called into action several times, making crucial saves to deny the visitors an early lead.

River Plate, however, found their breakthrough in the second half:

• ⚽ 56’ – Miguel Borja capitalized on a well-placed cross, calmly slotting the ball past the keeper to open the scoring.

• ⚽ 69’ – Franco Mastantuono, the 16-year-old sensation, doubled the lead with a composed finish that electrified the Monumental crowd.

From then on, River controlled possession and comfortably closed out the game.

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🎙️ Post-Match Reactions

Midfielder Enzo Pérez admitted the team is still searching for their best form:

“Once we opened the scoring, we found more fluid play, but we still need more. Beyond the victory, which is very important, we must keep improving in our game and in who we are.”

Coach Marcelo Gallardo, in his second spell at River, emphasized balance and consistency. With key reinforcements like Acuña, Pezzella, and Montiel, River has shown defensive solidity—just one goal conceded in seven matches.

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📊 Key Stats

• Shots on Target: River Plate 6 – 3 San Martín

• Possession: River Plate 62% – 38% San Martín

• Pass Accuracy: River Plate 87% – 76% San Martín

• Fouls Committed: River Plate 10 – 13 San Martín

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⚔️ Rivalry & Historical Context

This matchup is not one of Argentina’s fiercest rivalries, but San Martín (SJ) has always been a tough opponent when promoted. Since 2015, River Plate and San Martín have met 6 times, with River leading the head-to-head:

• ✅ 3 Wins

• 🤝 2 Draws

• ❌ 1 Loss

With this latest result, River Plate remains top of Group B with 15 points, while San Martín struggles near the bottom with just 3 points.

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🌟 What’s Next for River Plate?

River Plate’s form under Gallardo suggests they are serious contenders for both domestic dominance and continental success in 2025. Fans are particularly excited about the rise of Mastantuono, who is quickly becoming one of Argentina’s brightest young talents.

San Martín, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly if they hope to stay competitive in the Apertura.

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📌 Final Thoughts

The win over San Martín was not just another three points—it was a statement of River Plate’s intent this season. With experience, youth, and strong tactical leadership, the Millonarios look poised to chase silverware on all fronts.

🔴⚪ River fans—do you think this squad can stay unbeaten in 2025? Drop your thoughts in the comments!