River Plate is set to play at La Pedrera stadium in Villa Mercedes on Tuesday night against Ciudad de Bolívar in the Copa Argentina, marking their return to a venue with a notable history. This match is essential for the team as they look to build on their previous successes there, having previously won decisively against Barracas Central in July 2022. However, they are also haunted by memories of tension involving referee Andrés Merlos, particularly following a controversial incident that took place in a recent match against Argentinos Juniors. In the past encounters at La Pedrera, two official matches have been held in the Copa Argentina, complemented by a friendly during Martín Demichelis’s early tenure as coach. The last visit there was particularly tumultuous for the team and its coach, Marcelo Gallardo, who publicly criticized referee Merlos for what he deemed poor officiating. Gallardo’s comments highlighted the pressure his team is under, reflecting the fine line between victory and controversy in Argentine football. As River prepares for this crucial match, the anticipation builds not only around the performance of the team but also the officiating role played by Merlos, whose decisions have previously incited dramatic reactions from Gallardo. The upcoming match should be closely watched, both for its significance in the Copa Argentina and the ongoing narrative of refereeing controversies in the league, especially related to one of the most successful coaches in Argentina's recent football history.