River Plate secured three vital points in the Copa Sudamericana thanks to a memorable performance by Lucas Martínez Quarta, who went from being the target of criticism to becoming the hero of the night. The central defender, known as El Chino, scored the late goal that sealed the victory against Red Bull Bragantino in a match played on Brazilian soil. This triumph is fundamental for the Millonario, who seeks to consolidate its position at the top of the group.

The team captain, Martínez Quarta, analyzed the match after the victory, emphasizing the importance of the result. "It's an important result for us to win this game. Although it was a tough opponent, when their player was sent off, we were able to have a bit more possession. These are three very important points," he stated. His goal not only secured the victory but also provided relief and confidence to the team at a crucial moment in the competition.

Before his heroic goal, Martínez Quarta was involved in a tense moment when he committed an unusual penalty that could have changed the course of the match in favor of Red Bull Bragantino. However, fortune was on River Plate's side, as goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán saved Eduardo Sasha's shot, keeping a clean sheet and giving the defender a second chance.

River Plate now has 7 points in their Copa Sudamericana group, taking a 4-point lead over Bragantino, who are in third place and outside direct qualification. Carabobo, who defeated Blooming 2-0, is the second-placed team, maintaining pressure in the standings. The Millonario must maintain this momentum in upcoming matches to secure their passage to the next phase.

River Plate's next challenge will be on Sunday at 6:30 PM against Atlético Tucumán, in a rescheduled match from round 9 that will conclude the first phase of the Torneo Apertura. Subsequently, on Thursday, May 7, the team will visit Carabobo for the fourth matchday of the Copa Sudamericana, a key encounter for their continental aspirations. The basis of this victory, according to Martínez Quarta, is constant effort and the pursuit of goals.