2016 Copa Argentina Final vs Rosario Central

Lore & Background

Beyond the 4-3 shootout scoreline lay a deeper transformation for the club. This triumph validated Gallardo's high-intensity philosophy, proving the squad could withstand immense pressure against fierce rivals like Rosario Central. It wasn't just about lifting a cup; it was about silencing the ghosts of past failures and establishing a new standard for Argentine football that would define the following decade.

In Their Own Story

Under the floodlights of Mendoza, the stadium vibrated with a mix of anxiety and hope. Armani, crouched in his goal, tracked the striker's run-up without flinching. The strike came; Armani dove right, fingertips finding traction to deflect the ball away from the net. The resulting roar wasn't just noise—it was decades of frustration dissolving into pure euphoria as teammates rushed to embrace their goalkeeper.

Reader's Guide

Held on November 17, 2016, at Estadio Malvinas Argentinas, this final pitted River Plate against Rosario Central. The match ended level at 3-3 after extra time following goals from Carlos Sánchez, Paredes, and D'Alessandro for the Millonarios, and a brace by Lucas Pratto plus another goal for Central. Unable to separate in open play, the tie went to penalties where Armani's crucial save secured the 4-3 win.

Did You Know?

• This was the first time in history that River Plate won the Copa Argentina.
• Franco Armani made a decisive save in the penalty shootout to seal the victory.
• The match took place in Mendoza, not at the traditional venues of either club.
• Lucas Pratto scored two goals for Rosario Central but could not prevent their defeat.