The Millionaire believes a victory over Glory would almost secure the top position, though the rankings must still be finalized.
The Professional League Cup presents itself as an unusual chapter. River Plate, after an underwhelming start, managed to solidify its form and gain an edge that once seemed decisive. Now, after back-to-back defeats, mathematical qualification to the top four in Zone A remains within reach, yet nothing is guaranteed until the numbers confirm it, since a surprising turn of events would still have to occur for the illusion of a drop from the podium to vanish.
WHY WILL RIVER BE BASED IN AVELLANEDA RATHER THAN MONUMENTAL?
River Plate sits atop the table on goal difference, tied on points with Huracán and Independiente at 23. Colón, Banfield, and Rosario Central are on 20. To miss the top four they would need to suffer losses while others win decisively. The plan, however, is clear: secure the first qualifying spot and prepare for a crucial match when Instituto visits on Sunday at 6 p.m. at the Libertadores de América Stadium in Avellaneda.
THE RIVER’S SHAPE AND PREPARATION
The extended preview of the upcoming match against Glory followed last Wednesday’s friendly in Chile against Colo Colo, which finished in a 2-2 draw. A separate game against Independiente Rivadavia in Mendoza was halted. Training sessions in the aftermath faced disruptions due to the FIFA international window, with several players temporarily away on national duty: Franco Armani, Paulo Díaz, Nicolás De La Cruz, and Salomón Rondón represented their national teams in qualifiers. Santiago Simón and Pablo Solari joined the Sub 23 squad touring Japan, while others continued with club duties.
When those players return on Thursday, the squad management faces a minor setback with the absence of a key defensive figure, which adds tension to the squad’s continuity. It remains to be seen whether Sebastián Boselli, who started against Cacique, will be selected for an official match after the international break.
RIVER’S LINEUP OPTIONS
Following consecutive defeats to Huracán and Rosario Central and the home advantage on the horizon, coach Demichelis is obliged to field the strongest available lineup, even if doubts linger about the wings, midfield control, and the frontline. The selection promises a solid spine: Franco Armani, Paulo Díaz, Lucas Martínez Quarta, Enzo Pérez, Nicolás De La Cruz, Manuel Lanzini, and Ezequiel Barco are set to start when fit. The remaining positions could hinge on choices between Andrés Herrera or Santiago Simón, Milton Casco or Enzo Díaz, Nacho Fernández or Rodrigo Aliendro, and Miguel Borja or Salomón Rondón.
(Goal)