With their sights set on the round of 16, the Cyclone leaves nothing to chance as they bet everything on a dramatic push in the round of 16. The stakes are high and the pressure is immense, but the team is determined to seize the opportunity in the crucial match that could redefine their campaign.
San Lorenzo, a South American Cup contender in 2023, received a new lease on life after a tense group phase. The club looked poised to bow out early, yet a late surge lifted them to second place in Group B, opening the door to the playoffs for a chance to reach the knockout rounds. The round of 16 would mark a return to the level of success they achieved twenty-one years ago, guided by the same club structure that once led them to glory. The victory in the group stage unlocked a pathway to the playoffs, and the team now faces the challenge of securing a spot in the next phase under the updated regulations introduced this edition.
Under the new rules, San Lorenzo will face one of the third-placed teams from the Copa Libertadores playoff brackets. It is a tough draw for the Cyclone, who finished as the lowest-scoring guard in the slate of contenders, posting only eight points. Their opponent is Independiente Medellín, a team that racked up the highest tally among squads that did not advance to the round of 16. The first leg is scheduled for Wednesday the 12th, kicking off at 9 p.m. at Atanasio Girardot Stadium in Medellín, with the return leg to follow a week later at the New Gasometer. The two-legged format sets the tone for a tense battle as both teams aim to take control early and carry momentum into the decisive second match.
THE CALL OF SAN LORENZO
Saturday’s clash against River has left Rubén Insúa weighing several concerns as Carlos Sánchez faced a limited involvement of just ten minutes due to a muscle injury. Diagnostic tests revealed a left hamstring tear, ruling Sánchez out of both legs of the tie. His absence creates a significant challenge because he had been stepping into the space vacated by Gattoni after his move to Sevilla, reshaping the defensive and midfield balance as the team prepares for a demanding fixture schedule.
In parallel, the injury list grows heavier. Pocho Cerutti underwent cruciate ligament surgery and will be sidelined for the remainder of the year, a blow to a squad that relies on experienced wingers and creative playmakers. On the positive side, Rafael Pérez appears close to return and could be cleared to participate, potentially rejoining the starting lineup depending on suspension status and fitness. The team’s medical staff remains vigilant, balancing risk and reward as they map out effective rotations for the upcoming matches.
THE FORMATION OF SAN LORENZO
Strategic adjustments are on the table as the coaching staff considers the best defensive setup with Rafael Pérez reintroducing stability alongside Sánchez’s replacement. Luján would likely resume the libero role, although Gastón Campbell could also push to enter the lineup if needed after stepping in during the previous spell of injuries. The decision centers on preserving defensive organization while ensuring the midfield and attacking phases maintain tempo and creativity.
As for the rest of the squad, coaches will assess whether any player has reported discomfort and whether to maintain Perruzzi in a midfield role or to look for alternative options in the engine room. The anticipated starting XI, subject to fitness checks, could include August Battle, Rafa Pérez, Gonzalo Luján, and Gastón Hernández at the back, with Agustín Giay, Jalil Elias, Francisco Perruzzi, and Malcolm Braida in the middle, supported by Nahuel Barrios, Iván Leguizamón, and Adam Bareiro up front.
ALTERNATIVE
Update will follow as the squad confirms the final lineup and tactical approach ahead of the first leg.
Source: Goal