After Racing defeat, what River need for Libertadores spot | OneFootball

The defeat in a frenetic match against the “Academy” closed off another option for the “Millonario.” The alternatives Gallardo’s team has left to qualify for the most prestigious continental tournament. Details.

River’s elimination at the hands of Racing puts Marcelo Gallardo’s team in jeopardy, as another door has closed for them to enter the next Copa Libertadores and they no longer depend on themselves.

The 3-2 loss at the Cilindro de Avellaneda eliminated Gallardo’s side from the Torneo Clausura and now they must rely on the results of other teams in order to reach the top continental competition.

The paths that could lead River to the Libertadores

With no chance of being champions, River can only enter the 2026 edition if Boca, Argentinos Juniors, or Lanús win the title and free up a spot.

If any of the three mentioned teams take the title and free up a spot, the “Millonario” will enter the initial phase of the continental tournament, as they would move up to third place (playoff).

In the case of the “Granate,” a new possibility opened up after winning the Copa Sudamericana against Atlético Mineiro. As champions, they secured their spot in the 2026 Libertadores and, if they win again in this Torneo Clausura, their place will go to the next team in the annual standings. That is, River.

Qualified for the 2026 Copa Libertadores

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.