River Plate Eyes a Narrow Margin as They Return to the Field
The millionaire aims to shake off the Bolivia setback quickly and defend the top spot in the local standings at the Tomás A. Ducó Palace. River’s leadership in the league is at stake as they prepare to extend their advantage while keeping a comfortable buffer over their pursuers. The plan is clear: return to the professional league stage with vigor and push the advantage further. The next clash is scheduled for Sunday, April 9, at 7 p.m., a test that could widen the gap before the next date arrives.
RIVER PLATE ON THE ROAD BACK
After the defeat in La Paz, the River squad left Bolivia and arrived on Argentinian soil on Wednesday morning to resume training at River Camp in the afternoon. The main miss in the session was Nicolas de La Cruz, who could not join the Bolivian trip due to the knee issue he picked up against Unión. He continues to experience discomfort that could prevent him from joining the squad for the upcoming match. Aside from that minor setback, the squad returned from the altitude in good shape and ready to push forward in the league and in continental duties.
RIVER’S LINEUP DISCUSSION
Coach Martin Demichelis is weighing players who arrive at peak physical condition, aiming to field a lineup similar to the one that comfortably beat Unión in the last domestic outing. This would include bringing back Milton Casco and Ignacio Fernández, who started on the bench against the Bolivian opponent. A key question remains at center back, where two players are in contention: Paulo Díaz or Emanuel Mammana. The chosen partner for Leandro González Pirez could come from this duo, shaping the spine of the defense for the match. From defense to attack, Nicolas de La Cruz remains a doubt with his swollen right knee, though there is a chance he could be available if the swelling subsides.
River Plate’s probable XI: Franco Armani; Milton Casco, Paulo Díaz or Emanuel Mammana, Leandro González Pirez, Enzo Díaz; Enzo Pérez, Rodrigo Aliendro; Ignacio Fernández, Jose Paradela; Lucas Beltrán. This setup keeps the balance between defensive solidity and the attacking capacity that has defined their recent performances.
ALTERNATIVE PLANS
There are contingency options being considered if the match demands a tweak in defense or midfield. The coaching staff is prepared to adjust the backline and the midfield pairing to maintain control, press with energy, and exploit space when opportunities arise. The goal remains to preserve the lead and extend the advantage in the standings, while staying alert to counter-threats from the opposition.
For fans and analysts, the sequence of decisions will be telling as River seeks to translate form into results despite the travel fatigue and the long season ahead. The team is focused on delivering a steady performance that reinforces their position at the top of the table and keeps momentum building toward upcoming challenges.
All developments will be tracked closely, with updates reflecting the coach’s ongoing assessment of fitness and tactical readiness. The forthcoming game promises to be a crucial chapter in River Plate’s campaign as they navigate a demanding schedule and strive to maintain regional and international ambitions. (Goal)