El Millonario is chasing a spot in the competition’s final, again in Córdoba, with a tough test against Canalla looming. The road to a championship restart has its own rhythm, and this semi-final is the moment River Plate must seize to keep their season on track.
The Professional League Cup has dominated River Plate’s calendar for a while. After an early exit from both the Copa Libertadores and the Argentine Cup, the cup has become not just a priority but the sole objective for the remainder of the year. Despite some fluctuations throughout the campaign, River Plate remains in the running to claim their second title in the 2023 season, a strong indication of their depth and resilience as the tournament progresses.
DEMICHELIS MARKS U17 WORLD CUP GOAL SCORE
To advance, the squad must navigate a very demanding hurdle in the semi-finals. Following a hard-fought win over Belgrano, River Plate returns to the Mario Kempes Stadium to face Central Rosary, a clash that also saw Racing eliminated on penalties. The upcoming encounter is set for Saturday, November 9, at 10 p.m., with the winner moving on to the final against the victor of the Godoy Cruz versus Platense match. This is a critical crossroad that could shape River Plate’s season, a moment where youth and experience collide on a big stage—an outcome that many analysts expect to shape the club’s trajectory for the next campaign. (Goal)
The River’s Fresh Face
In a week of fresh options, River Plate unveiled new prospects as coach Martin Demichelis elevated Agustin Ruberto and reunited Diablito Echeverri with the first-team setup following his standout performances at the Under-17 World Cup. Among the two, Ruberto seems likelier to join the matchday squad given the absence of Miguel Borja through injury. That injury absence creates an opportunity for the youngsters to stake a claim, and Ruberto’s ceiling appears high as he transitions from youth success to senior-level responsibilities. (Goal)
Meanwhile, Milton Hernandez, returning from an injury, is back in training after synovitis kept him sidelined in the previous match against the Pirates. His return could see him reintegrated into the coach’s plans, potentially restoring a familiar balance on the wings and providing veteran steadiness to the squad. (Goal)
RIVER’S TACTICAL SHAPE
One concern for River Plate revolves around Jaminton Campaz, the talented and unpredictable winger from Central who already posed problems in the penultimate group-stage outing. That match in the Gigante de Santiago left the team contemplating how to shield themselves from his impact. If Campaz is fully fit, there is a possibility that he could resume a key role on the right flank, keeping the game dynamic. An alternative approach would see Paulo Diaz pushed to the wing, with Ramiro Funes Mori stepping in as a central defender to maintain solidity at the back. (Goal)
Another tactical question centers on midfield chemistry. Rodrigo Aliendro started the last game in a holding role, replacing Manu Lanzini, but the former West Ham man could reclaim his spot if fitness allows. That shift would open space for Lanzini to operate with more freedom, potentially displacing Nacho Fernandez from the starting lineup. The coaching staff faces a delicate balance between defensive cover and creative outlet in the middle of the park. (Goal)
The likely starting XI could feature Franco Armani in goal, Milton Casco at right-back, Paulo Diaz and Leandro González Pírez as center-backs, and Enzo Díaz providing width. In midfield, Enzo Pérez pairs with Rodrigo Aliendro, while the attacking midfield trio could line up with Nicolás De La Cruz and either Manu Lanzini or Nacho Fernández, with Ezequiel Barco in a roaming role behind Salomon Rondon. This configuration aims to blend defensive discipline with attacking fluidity, leveraging the club’s depth to break down a stubborn opponent. (Goal)
As the semifinal unfolds, River Plate’s approach will hinge on exploiting wide areas, building from a solid backline, and delivering decisive moments through their attackers. The challenge is considerable, but the squad’s blend of youth confidence and seasoned professionals gives them a credible route to the final. The outcome will not only shape the season’s legacies but also influence how the team navigates the international calendar ahead. (Goal)
Note: All developments reflect ongoing coverage of River Plate’s campaign, including lineup considerations, player returns from injury, and tactical adjustments as they prepare for a pivotal match in Córdoba.