River Plate crowned 2023 Copa Libertadores champions after dramatic penalty shootout victory over Atlético Mineiro
River Plate's Franco Armani emerged as the hero of the hour
The Argentine giants secured their fifth Copa Libertadores title on Wednesday evening after a thrilling penalty shootout win over Brazil's Atlético Mineiro.
After a tense and entertaining 120 minutes of football, the match finished 0-0, forcing the dreaded penalty shootout. River Plate goalkeeper Franco Armani proved to be the hero, saving two of Atlético's spot kicks to secure the victory.
Esequiel Barco stepped up to take the winning penalty, sending the River Plate supporters into raptures. The triumph marks River Plate's fifth Copa Libertadores title, moving them one behind Independiente's record of seven.
The match was played in front of a sell-out crowd at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. River Plate started the match brightly and created several chances, but they were unable to find the breakthrough.
Atlético Mineiro grew into the game as the first half progressed, and they almost took the lead on the stroke of half-time when Hulk's shot crashed against the crossbar. The second half was a more even affair, with both sides creating chances but failing to find the net.
The match went into extra time, and River Plate had the better of the play. However, they were unable to break down Atlético's stubborn defense. The match eventually went to a penalty shootout, and it was Armani who proved to be the hero.
Armani saved two of Atlético's spot kicks, while River Plate converted all four of theirs. Barco's winning penalty sparked wild celebrations at the Monumental Stadium. The victory is a major triumph for River Plate, who have now won the Copa Libertadores five times.
It is also a personal triumph for Armani, who has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in South America. The victory will give River Plate a huge boost ahead of the Club World Cup, which they will contest later this year.
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