Battle of the season lives up to the hype
Friday 09 May 2008 15:54
It was billed as the battle of the season and, judging by the scuffles on and off the pitch, it lived up to its name.
Nine-man San Lorenzo came from 2-0 down against River Plate to draw 2-2 and progress into the quarter finals of the Copa Libertadores.
In an astonishing game at River Plate's Monumental stadium four goals, three sending offs, one penalty and a mini post-match riot made for a fiery event on a chilly autumn evening.
River Plate went ahead 16 minutes into the first half and things appeared to be looking up for manager Simeone, whose week was already a struggle after losing the Superclasicó against Boca on Sunday. Abreu, a former champion with San Lorenzo, put them 2-0 up in the second half.
But it was Bergessio's two audacious goals in four minutes, supported only by eight team-mates, that earned San Lorenzo passage into the last eight of the Copa.
Bergessio celebrates his moments of magic against River
River fans, making up the vast majority, saw their hopes dissipate before their eyes and things turned ugly.
After the game, 150 fans broke into the entrance hall demanding the head of chairman José María Aguilar - or as he is known to Argie Bargy, the 'Muppet'.
BLOG: April 2 Muppet mastery from River Plate president
Police held the fans back, but players had to remain in the changing rooms due to the threatening behaviour of waiting fans.
San Lorenzo and Boca Juniors are now the only two Argentine teams still in the competition after top of the table Estudiantes crashed out along with Lanús.
or
to add your comments