The Millionaire arrives at Fortin with a chance to extend the lead at the top, as Demichelis calls on a squad capable of showcasing the best in the league. Across town, the spotlight falls on a lower-tier jewel waiting to shine, a reminder that talent can emerge from any level and quickly make an impact on the bigger stage.
In the local competition, River Plate remains the undisputed leader of the Professional League Tournament, free from the Libertadores tournament complications that have shadowed their continental campaign. With a comfortable position at the summit, the team aims to stretch its advantage to eight points once again, reinforcing its status as the team to beat in domestic football.
The match closing the 18th round sees River Plate travel to Vélez Sarsfield on Monday, May 29, with kickoff scheduled for 9:30 p.m. at the Jose Amalfitani Stadium. The intention is clear: capitalize on San Lorenzo’s recent defeat to Barracas Central and widen the gap at the top of the table, sending a strong message to the rest of the league.
RIVER PLATE’S CALLING
After last week’s trip to Sporting Cristal in the Copa Libertadores, Martín Demichelis faced difficult defensive decisions. An ankle issue for Paulo Díaz and a knee sprain for Enzo Díaz left both players unavailable, while Emmanuel Mammana remains sidelined while continuing knee synovitis rehabilitation. The absences forced the coaching staff to reconfigure the back line, testing depth and resilience in high-stakes fixtures.
The big development in the squad for the Vélez game is the inclusion of Claudio Echeverri. Known as El Diablito and celebrated as the brightest prospect from River’s youth system, Echeverri trains with the first team and could be handed his debut in the red belt at just 17 years old, a moment that could define the club’s future in the short term.
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RIVER’S STARTING LINEUP
With Díaz absent on the defensive side, Demichelis has had to rely on the same eleven that played in Peru, while lining up potential replacements for those missing when necessary. In a shift designed to preserve balance, Milton Casco moves into the left-back position, returning to his familiar role on that flank. Beyond that, the core structure remains intact, aiming to keep the team’s defensive solidity and attacking rhythm intact.
As the lineup unfolds, the likely arrangement features Franco Armani in goal; Andrés Herrera and Robert Rojas in central defense alongside Leandro González Pirez; Milton Casco at left-back with a right-back to be confirmed from the squad’s depth. The midfield quartet is expected to include Enzo Pérez and Rodrigo Aliendro in the engine room, with Nicolás De La Cruz and Ignacio Fernández providing creative drive, while Esequiel Barco lines up in the attacking midfield slot. Up front, Lucas Beltrán is anticipated to lead the line, supported by a dynamic forward line that aims to pierce Vélez’ defense and convert chances at critical moments.
RIVER’S DEPTH OPTIONS
Decisions in such moments reveal the club’s breadth. The replacements for the regular starters are being assessed as the season unfolds, with the coaching staff weighing form, fitness, and tactical fit. The process is ongoing, and the coaching team will announce the final roster closer to kickoff, balancing the need for continuity with the value of fresh legs against a rival known for pressing high and challenging defenders with quick transitions.
Source: Goal