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The upcoming clash pits Rivera against Verde as the coach must decide who will fill the gap left by De la Cruz, sidelined for another two weeks. The decision sits squarely on the shoulders of Martín Demichelis, who has steered the squad through nine official appearances across the varying competitions. The window of action opened with a commanding win over Godoy Cruz, a 3-0 result that reflected the manager’s vision in motion. Now the immediate aim is to confirm that performance on what promises to be a demanding away trip.
River’s schedule for 2023
This weekend, the team travels to Junín to face Sarmiento under the lights at 9:30 p.m. It is a venue known for toughness, especially given that Israel Damonte’s side recently edged past Racing with a 1-0 scoreline and will be eager to maintain home momentum.
RIVER’S PLAN IN MOTION
As is customary under the leadership of Micho, the squad began recovery duties the morning after the victory against Talleres de Córdoba, and a brief rest period was scheduled through Wednesday. Then practice resumed, bringing with it a fresh set of news.
Nicholas de La Cruz, who had only just returned at the end of February following minor knee surgery after the World Cup, faced a setback again. An infection in the operated area will keep him off the field for at least ten days. Complicating matters, Elías Gómez did not attend due to a fever, Miguel Borja and Santiago Simón left the session with cramps and overload from Monday’s training, and Leandro Peña Biafore was promoted to join the top squad, but he sustained an ankle blow that raised concerns at River Camp.
RIVER’S SHAPE AND TACTICAL OUTLOOK
The sample performance against Godoy Cruz stood out as one of the best this season, with Aliendro slotting in alongside Enzo Pérez in midfield. That setup sparked speculation about repeating the same formation. However, De La Cruz’s absence demands a shift in personnel and possibly a reconsideration of the tactical scheme.
In the most recent match, the coach leaned toward a lone striker and two goals followed. The setback from DLC’s absence opens the door for Borja to re-enter the base lineup. Alternatively, the coach might lean toward a more natural replacement for the Uruguayan, with Agustín Palavecino and Ezequiel Barco emerging as clear options to fill the gap.
Defensively, Mammana could be in line to return, potentially replacing González Pírez, although the prevailing expectation points to only one alteration being necessary to meet the tactical requirements of the moment.
The probable lineup, subject to last-minute adjustments, includes Franco Armani in goal; Milton Casco, Leandro González Pírez, Paulo Díaz, and Enzo Díaz in defense; Rodrigo Aliendro and Enzo Pérez in the middle; Ezequiel Barco or Agustín Palavecino or Miguel Borja as the attacking midfielder; Ignacio Fernández and José Paradela in support roles; and Lucas Beltrán as the lead striker. The formation remains adaptable, with the manager prepared to rotate in response to the day’s conditions and the opponent’s setup.
ALTERNATIVE
Awaiting final confirmation.
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Notes: The information reflects coverage from Goal and is presented to summarize the evolving squad situation and tactical outlook. The commentary is intended to offer readers a clear picture of the squad’s path forward during the current period.