Red Mustern recognizes escape from the current crisis is essential after a string of poor results cost Stillitano his post. Yet the route to stability is far from simple; the club needs a victory to stabilize Gasómetro amid mounting pressure from the board, supporters, and the media. The focus is squarely on the upcoming league clash and on showing that the squad can rebound when it matters most.
The crisis Independent is navigating is multi-faceted. Financial pressures loom large, including an obligation to settle nearly 10 million dollars with Gonzalo Verón, a former player whose case has left a significant hole in the club’s finances through legal avenues. On the pitch, the coaching staff faces disruption as the club has yet to appoint a manager to replace Leandro Stillitano, and voices calling for Pedro Monzón to continue at the helm are growing louder by the day.
Compounding the situation, Red sits 20th in the Professional League Tournament, has not secured a win since the opening date, and now travels to face San Lorenzo at the New Gasometer where the home team has won all fixtures this season. The match is scheduled for Saturday at 7 p.m. local time, presenting a stern test of character for a squad under scrutiny from all sides.
THE CALLED INDEPENDENT
Avellaneda’s side arrives off a 3-0 victory over Ciudad de Bolívar in the Argentine Cup. That win gave interim boss Monzón a positive start and allowed him to project stability through a demanding schedule. Still, minutes before kick-off in that cup tie, Ayrton Costa picked up a muscle injury, which will sideline him for at least a couple of games while he recovers. In addition, Tomás Pozzo and Rodrigo Márquez are carrying longer-term injuries that will keep them out for several months, further testing the squad’s depth and resilience.
These injuries add urgency to the tactical decisions facing the team. The absence of key players creates opportunities for others to step up and demonstrate their readiness to contribute at a high level, especially in a league that prizes consistency and momentum heading into crucial fixtures.
THE TRAINING OF INDEPENDENT
The head coach expressed satisfaction with the group’s performance in La Plata, noting improvements in organization and intent, albeit acknowledging defensive lapses that need to be addressed. Given the current injury situation and available personnel, there remains a reasonable likelihood that the same starting XI could be used again, reinforcing the idea of continuity while still leaving room for adjustments if tactical needs dictate it. If the lineup holds, the probable arrangement includes Rodrigo Rey in goal behind a backline featuring Cristian Báez, Sergio Barreto, Edgar Elizalde, and Damian Pérez; a midfield trio of Kevin López, Iván Marcone, and Juan Cazares; with Mateo Barcia, Martín Cauteruccio, and Nicolás Vallejo up front. This setup emphasizes a balanced approach that seeks to control the midfield, press vigorously in the opposition half, and create attacking chances through quick combinations and width.
ALTERNATIVE
To confirm.
Note: The information reflects updated reporting and team releases. This rewrite preserves the core facts while presenting them in a refreshed, cohesive narrative that aligns with current events and strategic considerations for both clubs.