River Plate v Boca: Three potential Copa Libertadores match-winners

It’s not an exaggeration to say that Boca’s chances could hinge on whether Cristian Pavon recovers in time for Saturday’s match. The 22-year-old limped off injured in the first-leg and is facing a fight to be fit for the return at La Bombonera.

Why is it important that he starts? Quite simply – his game has everything. He can kill a ball dead with his first touch, he’s an incredible dribbler and is capable of producing something unbelievable when his side are up against it. In a match like this, that’s a valuable commodity.

Pavon is important at the back too. His tracking back to press often sets the tone for any counter-attack, which could be vital for Boca away from home. He’ll be a big loss to his side and the game as a whole if he misses out on Saturday. But it’s easy to see why he’s attracting suitors from Europe.

Franco Armani

After such a frenetic first-leg, it’s a decent chance that both goalkeepers will have their work cut out in the return fixture. Franco Armani has been crucial throughout River’s run to the final, producing match-winning performance against Independiente and Gremio in the semi-finals.

And the boyhood fan could make all the difference for the visitors again this weekend. The 6ft 2in stopper made a vital point-blank save from Carlos Tevez at La Bombonera. He’ll likely be called upon to perform similar heroics at El Monumental as he bids to win the trophy for the second time in three years.

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