The Cyclone Heads to Brazil for a Key Copa Sudamericana Test
The Cyclone visits the leader of Group H with a perfect record, knowing there will be tough battles in defense as the road to qualification tightens. A home loss to Fortaleza reshaped San Lorenzo’s path in the group stage, turning the upcoming trip to Brazil into a crucial chance to reclaim momentum and steady nerves before a decisive clash with Palestine for second place. The match also offers an opportunity to ready themselves for a rematch against a team that is sliding down from the Libertadores roster.
The fourth matchday of the group phase, part of the competition branded as the other half of the glory, will unfold this Wednesday, May 24, at 7 p.m. local time. The venue is the Castelao Stadium, where Leao will aim to secure a Round of 16 spot by building on nine points earned from the early part of the campaign.
San Lorenzo’s Call to Action
Coach Rubén Darío Insúa faces a challenging trip to Brazil with a handful of injuries that could reshape the lineup. The most significant setback comes from Nauel Barrios, who sprained his right ankle in the first half against Instituto and will miss several weeks. The squad also faces muscle strain worries for Gaston Hernandez and Federico Gattoni, while Augustine Giay remains with the Under-20 squad contending in a world championship event. On a brighter note, Adam Bareiro is available again after being sidelined by suspension in the previous match for accumulating five yellow cards in the domestic league. His return adds a dangerous option up front as the team seeks to maximize scoring chances on foreign soil.
Anticipated San Lorenzo Shape
With multiple absences dictating the tactical plan, Insúa is expected to adjust the defense. The central defense layout may see Rock Sanchez sliding into the last line after previously operating as a central midfielder, while Gaston Campi is likely to step in as a stopper alongside the reshuffled back line. On the wings, Gonzalo Lujan could restart on the right, allowing Elías and Martegani to partner in the midfield engine room. In attack, the absence of a trusted forward opens the door for Ezequiel Cerutti to vie for a starting role, though Iván Leguizamón remains a competitor for the front line according to form and fitness.
The suggested Barcelona formation places August Battle in goal, with Rafael Perez, Carlos Sanchez, and Gaston Campi across the defensive trio. In midfield, Gonzalo Luján operates on the right, with Jalil Elias and Agustín Martegani providing pace and creativity. Malcolm Braida adds width, while the attack trio features Ezequiel Cerutti, Adam Bareiro, and Andres Vombergar, a combination designed to maximize attacking options against a team that holds home advantage and momentum.
Alternatives to Consider
As Insúa weighs his options, several tactical variants exist. The team could deploy a more compact back line to absorb pressure and rely on quick counters down the wings. Alternatively, a more aggressive pressing approach from the midfields could disrupt the hosts’ buildup and create turnover chances higher up the pitch. The choice will hinge on the players available and the nature of the opponent’s threats on the night.
With the stakes high and the schedule demanding, the match promises a tactical chess game, a test of character, and a potential turning point for the group as San Lorenzo aims to solidify its path toward the knockout rounds.