The defender has been overloaded and is currently short for the one match that will ignite the Reds. In the middle of a demanding schedule, fatigue is visible, and every training session is measured against recovery timelines as the team targets strong performances in forthcoming fixtures.
This week, Ayrton Costa, a trusted defender for Independiente, withdrew from practice due to pain. Medical assessments confirmed a hamstring issue in his left leg, ruling him out of the upcoming clash against Estudiantes de La Plata in the Argentine Cup. The news initially brings a sting of concern for the squad, but the medical staff are closely monitoring the injury with a cautious return plan to prevent setbacks.
The silver lining is that Costa is expected to be only temporarily sidelined. Coach Carlos Tevez can anticipate having Costa available again for the next match in the Professional League Cup, resuming after the FIFA international window. This return would help stabilize the backline as the team ramps up for the next sequence of league games and cup ties.
Both El Rojo and El Pincha are scheduled to meet in the eighth finals of the country’s most federal competition this Saturday, with kickoff set for 3:15 PM at the Malvinas Argentinas Stadium in Mendoza. The venue offers a distinctive atmosphere, emblematic of a knockout duel that could tilt the balance in favor of the side that can convert chances and maintain defensive solidity under pressure.
ALL ABOUT THE ARGENTINE CUP QUARTER FINAL
Regarding the starting eleven, Apache has not disclosed the exact lineup. The club recently integrated two new players, Santiago Toloza and Julio Buffarini, into full training, signaling possible integration into the squad for this decisive round. Will Tevez decide to rotate personnel or keep a familiar spine in place? The coaching staff is weighing options that balance fresh energy with established chemistry on the field.
Independiente formation takes on Estudiantes for the Argentine Cup
The probable XI includes Rodrigo Rey in goal; Mauricio Isla and Cristian Báez along the defensive line, joined by Joaquín Laso and Damián Pérez. In midfield, Lucas González, Iván Marcone, Federico Mancuello, and Santiago Toloza are positioned to control tempo and field vision. Up front, Alexis Canelo and Matias Gimenez Rojas lead the attack as the attacking unit under the direction of head coach Carlos Tevez, who will be tasked with translating tactical plans into performance on the day of the match.
Note: The selection reflects strategic considerations and current fitness, with possible tweaks depending on the latest training data and tactical needs as kickoff approaches.