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Boca Juniors Eliminates River Plate in Epic Semi-Final Penalty Shootout
18 Years Ago, a Historic Night for Argentine Football
Buenos Aires, Argentina (June 17, 2022)
In an unforgettable match that will forever be etched in the annals of Argentine football, Boca Juniors pulled off a dramatic victory over arch-rivals River Plate on June 17, 2004, in the second leg of the Copa Libertadores semi-final.
After a tense 90 minutes that ended in a 1-1 draw, the match went to a penalty shootout. With the pressure mounting, Boca goalkeeper Roberto Abbondanzieri saved River's first penalty, giving his team a crucial advantage. Nicolas Burdisso, Rolando Schiavi, and Guillermo Barros Schelotto all converted their penalties for Boca, while River's Ariel Ortega and Marcelo Gallardo were denied by Abbondanzieri.
The final penalty was taken by Boca's Carlos Tevez, who coolly slotted the ball into the net to send his team to the final. The stadium erupted in a deafening roar as Boca players celebrated their hard-fought victory.
The match was marked by its intense atmosphere and the high stakes involved. It was the first time in 14 years that Boca and River had faced off in the Copa Libertadores, and the rivalry between the two clubs is one of the most fierce in world football.
Boca's victory was a major upset, as River were the heavy favorites heading into the match. However, Boca's determination and never-say-die attitude proved to be the difference on the day.
18 years later, the match remains a defining moment in the history of both clubs and Argentine football as a whole. It is a testament to the passion, skill, and drama that makes this sport so beloved.
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