Gallardo remains hopeful against Palmeiras: 'We have to believe it's possible'

Just days away from its most crucial match of the year, River is focusing on the second leg against Palmeiras in the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals. The match will be played on Wednesday in Brazil, and Marcelo Gallardo's team is obliged to win to stay alive in the continental tournament.

After the defeat at the Monumental, El Millonario arrives shaken by a poor performance in the domestic league against Atlético Tucumán, a match that the coach described as "uncomfortable" due to its timing between the clashes with Verdao. However, Muñeco chose to turn the page: "We'll prepare mentally to be ready on Wednesday," he stated.

Gallardo was blunt regarding the situation: "We have to go win in Brazil, we have no other option. We're going to play with the determination that's required." Despite the difficulty of the challenge, he maintained an optimistic message: "It's going to be tough, but not impossible. A good match will give us opportunities. We have to believe it's possible, that there's only a one-goal difference."

The coach also highlighted what he considers the foundation of hope: his team's reaction in the second half of the first leg at the Monumental. "We showed a completely different side and that's the side we need to show in Brazil," he assured.

Gallardo concluded with a motivational message: "It's a beautiful challenge. It seems impossible, but we're going to prepare it with the energy that's needed to turn it around in Brazil. Everything is still to play for."

With that mentality, River travels to São Paulo in search of the feat that would allow it to reach the semifinals and keep the dream of the Cup alive.