Aldosivi delivered a major upset in Salta, defeating River Plate 3-1 in the Copa Argentina. Tomás Fernández scored twice, with Nicolás Cordero adding another. River Plate managed a late goal but could not recover.
Aldosivi delivered one of the most striking upsets of the Copa Argentina 2026, defeating River Plate 3-1 in Salta and sending shockwaves through the tournament. The match, played at Estadio Padre Martearena on July 17, saw the Mar del Plata side take full advantage of River Plate’s defensive lapses, establishing a commanding lead before the break and extending it in the second half.
Despite River Plate entering the fixture as clear favorites, Aldosivi’s disciplined approach and clinical finishing quickly shifted the momentum. Tomás Fernández was the standout, scoring twice in the first half, while Nicolás Cordero added a third after the interval. River Plate, managed by Eduardo Coudet, struggled to find rhythm and organization, only managing to reduce the deficit late in the game with a goal from Rafael Borré.
The confirmed line-ups reflected both teams’ intent. Aldosivi started with Chicco in goal, supported by Laurelli, Zalazar, Moya, and Pombo in defense. The midfield featured González, Sosa, Castro, and Fernández, with Cordero and Godoy leading the attack. River Plate fielded S. Beltrán, G. González, Martínez Quarta, Rivero, and Acuña at the back, Moreno as a holding midfielder, and Vera, Galván, Meza, Colidio, and Borré in more advanced roles.
The result means Aldosivi advances to the round of 16, where they will face Independiente Rivadavia. The match was broadcast live on TyC Sports and followed closely by fans and media, including minute-by-minute coverage from Olé. The defeat adds to a series of high-profile surprises in recent Argentine football, echoing the unpredictable atmosphere seen in other major events, such as the charged World Cup semifinal between England and Argentina, where fan tensions and early incidents set the tone for a dramatic encounter (see more on the Atlanta semifinal atmosphere).
Copa Argentina’s format, with its neutral venues and single-elimination rounds, often produces unexpected outcomes, giving underdogs a real chance against established giants. For River Plate, the loss in Salta highlights ongoing challenges in defensive organization and consistency under Eduardo Coudet’s management. For Aldosivi, the victory not only secures progression but also reinforces their reputation as a team capable of capitalizing on high-pressure opportunities. The next round against Independiente Rivadavia will test whether Aldosivi can maintain this level of performance as the competition intensifies.
