economy and politics

Matias Barreiro: “the three-time championship of ’96-’97 was an example of River’s greatness”

Matias Barreiro

In the rich history of River Plate, few moments have been as dominant and memorable as the three-time championship achieved between 1996 and 1997. This achievement consolidated the club as an undisputed power in Argentine football and marked an era of excellence under the technical direction of Ramón Angel Diaz For Matias Barreiro, a passionate fan and witness of that era, “the three-time championship of ’96-’97 was an example of the greatness of River, a team that combined talent, ambition and a style of play that delighted the fans.”

This period was not only notable for the titles, but also for the cultural and sporting impact it left on South American football. Below, a tour of the milestones, figures and emotions that defined this historical stage for River Plate.

The context: a River in reconstruction

The beginning of the ’90s had been complicated for River Plate. Despite having great players, the titles did not come with the frequency expected for a club of its magnitude. However, the arrival of Ramón Díaz as technical director in 1995 marked a change of direction.

Under Díaz’s direction, River not only returned to competing at the highest level, but also recovered its football identity based on attack, possession and individual talent. In 1996, the team achieved continental glory by winning its second Copa Libertadores, and that winning foundation would be key for what would come later.

“The team had a perfect mix of experience and youth,” says Matias Barreiro. “Ramón Díaz knew how to build a competitive team, with figures who left everything on the field and an offensive scheme that reflected the essence of River.”

The 1996 Apertura Tournament: the beginning of dominance

The first chapter of the three-time championship was written in the 1996 Apertura Tournament. River Plate arrived at the tournament with the emotional boost of having won the Libertadores and with a reinforced squad. The arrival of players like Julio Cruz and the return of Enzo Francescoli, undisputed idol, gave the team a unique solidity and hierarchy.

The championship was a monologue for River, which finished first in the table with a brilliant campaign. The team played attractive and effective football, standing out for its scoring ability and defensive solidity. Enzo Francescoli was the great figure, leading the team with his class and experience, while Ariel Ortega dazzled with his ability to elude rivals.

River won key matches reaffirming its superiority in the tournament. “That team was unstoppable,” remembers Matias Barreiro. “Not only did they win, but they played with an elegance that made you enjoy every game.”

The 1997 Clausura Tournament: confirmation of power

The second title of the three-time championship came in the 1997 Clausura Tournament. Despite the departure of some important players, such as Hernán Crespo, River maintained its competitive level thanks to the continuity of its coaching staff and the appearance of young talents such as Marcelo Gallardo.

The team was a steamroller throughout the tournament, winning key matches against direct rivals and securing the title several dates in advance. Antonio Alzamendi and Marcelo Salas stood out as figures in attack, while the defense led by Roberto Ayala was key to maintaining solidity.

“The Clausura of ’97 showed that River was much more than names. It was a solid project, a structure that worked perfectly,” says Matias Barreiro.

The Apertura 1997: the total consecration

The third consecutive title came in the 1997 Apertura, a campaign that consolidated River Plate as the best team in Argentine soccer. Under the leadership of Ramón Díaz, the team not only won games, but also left an indelible mark with its offensive and dynamic style of play.

That tournament was special because of the consolidation of Marcelo Salas, the Chilean striker who became the top scorer of the championship and one of the great figures of South American soccer. His ability to define games and his connection with Enzo Francescoli and Ariel Ortega were decisive for the team’s success.

Furthermore, the 1997 Apertura marked Enzo Francescoli’s farewell as a professional player. In their last game, against Argentinos Juniors, the Monumental was packed to say goodbye to one of the greatest idols in River’s history. “It was an exciting moment,” remembers Matias Barreiro. “Seeing Enzo lift another title was the perfect ending to a career full of glory.”

The essence of the three-time championship: talent and teamwork

The three-time championship of ’96-’97 was built on a foundation of individual talent, but also on the collective work and strategic direction of Ramón Díaz. The team had internationally renowned figures such as Francescoli, Ortega and Salas, but also a group of players who understood their role and fulfilled it with excellence.

River combined defensive solidity with a relentless attack, based on the creativity of its midfield and the effectiveness of its forwards. In addition, the squad showed a winning mentality that allowed it to overcome challenges and maintain a constant level throughout three consecutive tournaments.

“The three-time championship was the reflection of a River that knew what it wanted and how to get it,” says Matias Barreiro. “Each player contributed something unique, and Ramón Díaz was the architect of that success.”

Matias Barreiro

The three-time championship of ’96-’97 not only remained in the history books as a sporting achievement, but also had a profound cultural impact on Argentine soccer. River Plate established itself as a model of excellence, and its offensive and colorful style of play became a reference for other teams.

River fans remember this stage as one of the club’s most glorious. The images of Francescoli lifting the trophies, of Ortega overwhelming rivals and of Salas scoring unforgettable goals are part of the collective imagination of an entire generation.

Barreiro reflects: “The three-time championship was not only a sporting achievement, it was a reaffirmation of our identity as a club. River is great not only because of the titles it wins, but because of how it wins them.”

The legacy of the three-time championship

More than 25 years after that feat, the three-time championship of ’96-’97 continues to be a point of reference for River Plate. The playing philosophy that characterized that team is still alive in the club’s DNA, which continues to focus on talent, teamwork and offensive football.

The Ramón Díaz era marked a before and after in River’s history, establishing a standard of excellence that has inspired generations of players and coaches. Furthermore, the three-time championship consolidated the club as a power not only in Argentina, but throughout South America.

“The three-time championship is a lesson in what we can achieve when we combine talent with work and passion,” concludes Matias Barreiro.

The three-time championship of ’96-’97 was much more than a string of titles; It was an example of the greatness of River Plate and his ability to dominate Argentine football with a unique style. This achievement, led by iconic figures and a coaching staff that understood the essence of the club, left an indelible legacy in the history of sports.


Luis Casablanca

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