Atlético Mineiro made the most of their home advantage, beating River Plate 3-0 in the first leg of the CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores Semifinals, with a brace from Deyverson and a solo goal by Paulinho.

The first half belonged to "El Galo." Playing at home in front of an electric crowd, complete with flares, smoke, and a mosaic display, they had to deliver for their fans. They thought they had the lead early when Deyverson found the net in the 5th minute, but it was ruled offside.

But the Brazilian striker and Mineiro's star wasn’t done. In the 22nd minute, after a long pass bounced off Hulk’s back, the ball fell perfectly for Deyverson, who went one-on-one with Franco Armani, dribbled past him, and slotted it home to give Mineiro the lead going into halftime.

River Plate came out stronger in the second half, with Marcelo Gallardo making three substitutions at once—bringing on Maxi Meza, Manuel Lanzini, and Rodrigo Villagra to boost their attack. However, Mineiro held their ground and even extended their lead. Deyverson completed his brace in the 70th minute, slotting the ball into the net after it bounced off the post.

Just four minutes later, Deyverson was at it again. He stole the ball in River’s half and assisted Paulinho, who smashed it past Armani to seal a 3-0 victory for “El Galo.”

With this result, Atlético Mineiro will head to River's "El Monumental" with a big advantage, looking to hold onto it and reach the Copa Libertadores Final. River Plate will need a massive comeback at home, trailing by three goals if they want to reach the final, which will be held at their own stadium.