50 Facts About River Plate Vs. San Lorenzo

The Historic Rivalry

River Plate and San Lorenzo are two of the most iconic football clubs in Argentina. Their matches are always intense, filled with passion and history. Here are some fascinating facts about their rivalry.

1. River Plate was founded in 1901, making it one of the oldest football clubs in Argentina.
2. San Lorenzo was established in 1908, just seven years after River Plate.
3. The first official match between River Plate and San Lorenzo took place in 1931.
4. River Plate's home stadium is Estadio Monumental, the largest stadium in Argentina.
5. San Lorenzo's home ground is Estadio Pedro Bidegain, commonly known as Estadio Nuevo Gasómetro.
6. River Plate is known as "Los Millonarios" (The Millionaires) due to their wealthy beginnings.
7. San Lorenzo is nicknamed "Los Cuervos" (The Crows) because of their association with a local priest.
8. River Plate has won the Argentine Primera División 36 times.
9. San Lorenzo has claimed the Argentine Primera División title 15 times.
10. River Plate has a fierce rivalry with Boca Juniors, known as the Superclásico.

Memorable Matches

Throughout the years, River Plate and San Lorenzo have faced off in numerous memorable matches. These games have left a lasting impact on fans and the history of Argentine football.

11. In 1941, River Plate defeated San Lorenzo 5-0, one of their biggest victories against them.
12. San Lorenzo got their revenge in 1959 with a 4-0 win over River Plate.
13. The 1972 Nacional Championship saw San Lorenzo beat River Plate 1-0 in the final.
14. In 1996, River Plate triumphed over San Lorenzo 4-0 in a memorable league match.
15. San Lorenzo knocked River Plate out of the 2008 Copa Libertadores in the Round of 16.
16. River Plate defeated San Lorenzo 3-1 in the 2014 Copa Sudamericana.
17. In 2015, San Lorenzo won the Argentine Super Cup by beating River Plate 1-0.
18. River Plate's 2-1 victory over San Lorenzo in 2018 helped them secure the league title.
19. San Lorenzo's 3-2 win in 2019 was a thrilling comeback after being down 2-0.
20. The 2021 match ended in a 1-1 draw, showcasing the evenly matched nature of the rivalry.

Legendary Players

Both clubs have produced and attracted some of the best football talents in Argentina and the world. These players have left an indelible mark on the rivalry.

21. Alfredo Di Stéfano, one of the greatest footballers ever, played for River Plate in the 1940s.
22. San Lorenzo's José Sanfilippo was a prolific striker in the 1950s and 1960s.
23. River Plate's Enzo Francescoli, known as "El Príncipe," was a key player in the 1980s and 1990s.
24. San Lorenzo's Leandro Romagnoli is considered one of their greatest midfielders.
25. Ariel Ortega, a River Plate legend, dazzled fans with his dribbling skills.
26. San Lorenzo's Héctor Scotta was a top scorer in the 1970s.
27. River Plate's Norberto Alonso, known as "Beto," was a creative playmaker.
28. San Lorenzo's Néstor Ortigoza was instrumental in their 2014 Copa Libertadores win.
29. River Plate's Marcelo Gallardo, now their coach, was a talented midfielder.
30. San Lorenzo's Ezequiel Lavezzi went on to have a successful international career.

Fan Culture

The fans of River Plate and San Lorenzo are known for their passionate support. Their chants, banners, and unwavering loyalty create an electrifying atmosphere during matches.

31. River Plate's fans are called "Los Borrachos del Tablón" (The Drunks of the Stands).
32. San Lorenzo's supporters are known as "La Gloriosa Butteler."
33. River Plate's anthem, "River, mi buen amigo," is sung with fervor at every match.
34. San Lorenzo's anthem, "Ciclón, Ciclón," echoes through their stadium.
35. River Plate's fans often display a giant flag called "La Bandera Más Larga del Mundo" (The Longest Flag in the World).
36. San Lorenzo's fans are famous for their "Banderazo," a massive flag-waving event.
37. River Plate's supporters have a tradition of throwing shredded paper onto the field.
38. San Lorenzo's fans light up the stadium with flares and fireworks.
39. River Plate's fans are known for their "Caravana Monumental," a massive pre-match parade.
40. San Lorenzo's supporters have a unique chant called "El Matador."

Modern Era

In recent years, the rivalry between River Plate and San Lorenzo has continued to thrive. Both clubs have enjoyed success domestically and internationally, keeping the competition fierce.

41. River Plate won the Copa Libertadores in 2015 and 2018.
42. San Lorenzo claimed their first Copa Libertadores title in 2014.
43. River Plate's Marcelo Gallardo is considered one of the best coaches in South America.
44. San Lorenzo's recent coaches include Diego Dabove and Paolo Montero.
45. River Plate's youth academy, "La Máquina," has produced many talented players.
46. San Lorenzo's youth academy, "La Cantera," is also highly regarded.
47. River Plate's women's team has won multiple league titles.
48. San Lorenzo's women's team has also enjoyed success in recent years.
49. River Plate's social media presence is one of the largest among Argentine clubs.
50. San Lorenzo's fan base continues to grow, both locally and internationally.

The Final Whistle

River Plate vs. San Lorenzo isn't just a match; it's a clash of titans with a rich history. From thrilling comebacks to unforgettable goals, this rivalry has it all. Fans from both sides bring unmatched passion, making every game a spectacle. The stats, the players, and the unforgettable moments all contribute to the magic of this fixture.

Whether you're a die-hard supporter or a casual observer, understanding the depth of this rivalry adds a new layer of appreciation. It's more than just 90 minutes on the pitch; it's a story of pride, tradition, and fierce competition. So next time these two giants face off, you'll know just how much is at stake. Enjoy the game, and may the best team win!