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ESDraw on Matchday 5 of the PFL Cup On Wednesday, February 14th, River Plate played to a goalless draw in its visit to Atlético Tucumán, but remains at the top of Group A with 11 points.
River struggled in the initial minutes of the match as Atlético Tucumán pressed upfield, resulting in several close calls. Matías Orihuela tested Franco Armani with a powerful cross-shot, a corner kick led to a near-miss shot, and a header from Marcelo Estigarribia was blocked effectively by the River Plate keeper. River had a chance to respond with a left-wing run by Facundo Colidio, but he couldn't find Miguel Borja.
In another attack, Andrés Herrera didn't give up and made it to the byline with difficulty. He lofted a high cross that Colidio skillfully brought down, and in the ensuing scramble, Nacho Fernández was fouled, winning a penalty. Esequiel Barco stepped up to take it and José Devecchi saved it. The referee was alerted by VAR of an encroachment into the penalty area, leading to a retake, though the shot went wide.
Atlético Tucumán had more chances, but between the poor finishing of its forwards and Armani's solid performances, the score remained level. In the last opportunity of the first half, after a long pass, Borja slipped upfield and narrowly shot past the onrushing keeper: the ball ricocheted off him and went just wide of the left post.
The second half was off to a tight start, with few attacks from either side. The first chance was created by Franco Mastantuono, who came off the bench and attempted a free kick that was saved by Devecchi. The home team also had its opportunities: a dangerous left-wing run and a left-footed cross-shot by Joaquín Pereyra that hit the post. Around the 70th minute, Mastantuono blasted the top corner with a powerful shot from outside the box.
After a very intense match, River and Atlético Tucumán shared the points. River has now reached 11 points and sits atop Group A. In the upcoming matchday, scheduled for Sunday, the team will host Banfield at the Mâs Monumental stadium.
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