The Millionaire will open the playoffs against the Pirate, and Demichelis already knows his options in attack will be missing from the start.
River Plate’s 2023 Professional League Cup campaign ended with a rough stretch, as the team collected only one point from its last three fixtures. While the performances were enough to seal second place in Zone A, there is concern among the squad and its supporters about the recent form.
WHAT TIME IS RIVER PLAYING: THE MILLIONAIRE’S CALENDAR IN 2023
Looking ahead, El Millonario cannot afford any slips. A defeat would end the run in what remains the club’s single objective for the season. The quarterfinals pair River with Belgrano, with the leg set to be played in Córdoba on a neutral venue, after the draw. The match is scheduled for Sunday at 6:30 PM, taking place at the Mario Kempes stadium in Córdoba. [Citation: league schedule announcement]
The River Squad Update
Early in the week, worrying news came with Miguel Borja finishing the clash against Instituto on Sunday while nursing a muscle issue. After medical evaluation, a tear in the right adductor was diagnosed, ruling him out for the rest of the year and depriving Demichelis of a key attacking option. [Citation: club medical bulletin]
The door to return to action could open for Enzo Pérez after a suspension, while the coach must decide which defender from the bench will provide depth for the upcoming rounds. [Citation: team Briefing]
THE RIVER LINEUP
Despite results that have fallen short of expectations, Micho wants the team to press forward with purpose. With Santiago Simón back in the mix, questions arise about wing options. Milton Casco could reclaim the left flank, or Enzo Díaz might continue there, as Enzo Pérez shifts to central midfield alongside Kranevitter, who remains on the bench for balance. [Citation: tactical notes]
The projected starting XI would likely feature Franco Armani in goal, Santiago Simón on the right, Leandro González Pírez and Paulo Díaz in central defense, and Enzo Díaz or Milton Casco on the left. Enzo Pérez anchors the middle, supported by Nicolás De La Cruz, Ignacio Fernández, Manuel Lanzini, and Éver Banega in a midfield trio. Up front, Solomon Rondon leads the line, with a supporting cast ready to push River forward when it matters most. [Citation: line-up forecast]
In this phase, the team’s shape aims for balance, pressing high when possible while maintaining discipline to endure transitions. The coaching staff will lean on depth to cover Borja’s absence and to exploit Belgrano’s defensive setup in Córdoba. [Citation: tactical outlook]
Note: tactical adjustments are fluid, and the lineup can shift as form, fitness, and opposition trends are evaluated. The focus remains on creating scoring chances through quick combinations and width, while ensuring solidity at the back in a knockout format where margins are tight. [Citation: coaching notes]
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