Gonzalo MARTINEZ sends River Plate to Copa Libertadores final after win against Gremio

Gonzalo MARTINEZ scored a dramatic penalty in injury time to send River Plate to the final of the Copa Libertadores, eliminating Gremio 2-1, 2-2 on aggregate.

It was a semi final match which had it all. Goals, drama and even VAR. River Plate started the match strongly but were unable to convert their chances. It was Gremio which took the lead in the first half through a goal by Leonardo GOMES.

The second half saw Argentina goalkeeper Franco ARMANI make a key save when 1 on 1 against Everton. That saved proved to be massive.

Rafael SANTOS BORRE pulled one back for River Plate in the 82nd minute, a header past the goalkeeper gave Marcelo GALLARDO’s team a chance to still qualify for the final. Controversy soon came afterwards when referee Andres CUNHA went to VAR to award River Plate a penalty kick and send off Marcelo GROHE of Gremio.

Up stepped Gonzalo MARTINEZ and he was able to dispatch his spot kick into the back of the net to send River Plate to the final.

This could set up an all Argentine clash as fierce rivals Boca Juniors play against Palmeiras, with Boca taking a 2-0 lead into the second leg.

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