River’s Curious Streak: Does Beating a Peruvian Team First Mean You’ll Win the Libertadores?

River Plate kicked off their 2025 Copa Libertadores campaign with a 1-0 away win over Universitario in Lima, and a striking historical pattern is fueling fans' dreams. In the last four editions of the tournament, the eventual champion began their journey with a win against a Peruvian club.

Palmeiras in 2021, Flamengo in 2022, and Fluminense in both 2023 and 2024 all started with victories over Peruvian sides—just like River did this Tuesday.

Paulo Díaz scored the winner, while Franco Armani once again played a crucial role with two decisive saves.

River now shares the lead in Group B with Barcelona SC, who also won their opener, while Independiente del Valle and Universitario trail behind.

With the final set for November 29, Marcelo Gallardo’s team has taken the first step in what could be a title run. Coincidence or omen? Only time—and football—will tell.