Gallardo, critical after the draw with Universitario: 'We were a team with two faces'

River secured its place in the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores after drawing 1-1 against Universitario de Perú in the final matchday of Group B. However, Marcelo Gallardo was not satisfied with his team's performance, especially in the second half of the match played at the Monumental stadium.

"We were a team with two faces, with good intentions as we had been showing. The first 45 minutes were good, and in the second half we couldn't develop the same," Muñeco analyzed sincerely.

The coach also showed self-criticism regarding the overall performance: "Once the match was over, what we did is not how we want to express ourselves. There was a lack of dynamism to go after the match and keep putting pressure on the opponent," he added.

Looking ahead, Gallardo emphasized the importance of maintaining intensity and strengthening the play style. "Dynamism has to keep flowing, that's the challenge. Continue with that dynamism we had found so it keeps representing us and the fans for the second half of the year," he stated.

He also referred to the Club World Cup as one of the major upcoming objectives: "We're going to compete in the Club World Cup, I'm totally convinced. I want to go to win, not just to compete and see what happens. Expectations are always high. We have this squad, we have a brief window, but we have the chance to provide satisfaction."

Regarding the upcoming transfer market, River's coach pointed out the team's priority: "We need to consolidate what we have. We have to analyze what we need and, based on that, analyze the options."

Finally, when asked about the names of Juan Fernando Quintero and Cristiano Ronaldo, Gallardo avoided giving details. "I'm not going to mention any names or comment on that," he concluded.