Red is coming off a late setback in the match against Lanús and will aim to grab all three points when he travels to the stands of Tomba, likely carrying the same squad that faced the last test. The objective is clear: reinforce a push for a decisive result on the road and avoid extending the stretch of drawn games that can dent a team’s momentum late in the season.
One of Independiente’s recurring headaches this season has been the number of points left on the table in the final minutes of matches. The recent defeat to Lanús is a prime example, as the Garnet squad pushed ahead to 95 minutes with a Sand penalty that turned the game into a tough comeback scenario. The club needs every point it can muster to climb away from the relegation zone as the year’s sum of results approaches its final tally, a key element for the club’s overall standing and potential strategic planning in the off-season.
The focus now shifts to Mendoza, where the team will face Godoy Cruz at the close of date 19, scheduled for Sunday at 9:30 p.m. local time. Tomba, the club resurrected under the leadership of Gato Oldrá, returns from a lengthy unbeaten run that stretched for eight games, including a prior stretch without a loss following their time with Newell’s Old Boys. This visit represents a chance to sustain the renewed momentum and deliver a performance that can stabilize the campaign in the remaining fixtures.
THE CALLED INDEPENDENT
One notable figure in the Red week has been Sergio Barretowho, who appears poised to seal a move to Pachuca. With his bags already packed, Barretowho has been dealing with a persistent knee issue since the clash with Tigre and has missed the last two fixtures. The club has kept him registered and ready to travel, prioritizing the prevention of any setback that might jeopardize a sale crucial for addressing the financial challenges facing the squad.
Another standout absence is Ivan Marcone, who has been sidelined by a tear. His recovery appears progressed enough to make the trip to Mendoza, adding a potential boost in midfield depth and experience for the tactical setup that coach Valery or the designated trainer envisions for the away game.
THE TRAINING OF INDEPENDENT
In the week’s opening session following the substitutes’ friendly against Almirante Brown, the team lined up with the same group that produced a draw against Lanús. Joaquin Laso, who had returned from a deep ankle injury, did not miss the opportunity to participate fully in drills, signaling his readiness to contribute despite the earlier setback. The cohesion in training hints at a consistent approach for the upcoming fixture, with the selection for the match likely to reflect a balanced mix of durability, rhythm, and tactical fit.
If the coach sticks with the same lineup, the starting XI would feature Rodrigo Rey in goal; Luciano Gomez, Joaquin Laso, Javier Baez, Ayrton Costa across the back line; Braian Martinez, Martin Sarrafiore, Sergio Ortiz, Nicolas Vallejo in midfield; Matias Gimenez and Martin Cauteruccio leading the attack. That arrangement would preserve the established balance and provide continuity in pressing, build-up play, and attacking transitions as the team seeks to translate possession into clear chances on goal.
ALTERNATIVE
To confirm.