Lanús vs River Plate Match Preview
After losing the Superclasico, River Plate has been unable to recover, and their drift downwards on this tournament has left many wounds both in the squad as in their followers. Having fought with its addiction to alcohol during the whole year, Ariel Ortega might return to the team, as Leo Astrada is lacking his presence in the midfield to lead the ball towards their opponent's area. Without Marcelo Gallardo (still experiencing some physical problems) Mauro Diaz might have a chance to count within the starting eleven, though team's coach is yet unsure whether this young striker has the maturity to wear the red-and-white at this time of great need. There's another seasoning for this match. If this tournament was to be over today, River Plate will begin next one standing in the relegation zone. Obtaining every possible point will be mandatory to escape from the risk zone as fast as possible.
Thanks to two consecutive victories Luis Zubeldia's team has jump once again in this tournament fight, though they're still far even from obtaining a place for an American competition. Their success at the Copa Libertadores (Thanks to Maximiliano Velazque's long-distance shot) has fed Grana's dreams of greatness, and receiving River home this week might be the last ingredient for this awakening. Watch out for Santiago Salcedo, former River striker who left the team with great controversy last year. This Sunday will end with one of this two team's dreams shattered, which one would it be?
