River Plate Faces Critical Match Against Independiente Rivadavia

On the evening of November 21, 2024, at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas in Mendoza, River Plate is set to face Independiente Rivadavia in a critical match in the Liga Profesional. The fixture marks a significant opportunity for River Plate to close the gap on league leaders, Vélez Sarsfield.

The starting whistle for the much-anticipated encounter blew at 7:30 p.m. EST, with both sides having confirmed their formations shortly before. River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo, affectionately known as ‘El Muñeco’, has selected a starting eleven featuring Franco Armani, Fabricio Bustos, Leandro González Pirez, Federico Gattoni, and Milton Casco in defense. The midfield lineup includes Rodrigo Villagra, Santiago Simón, and Maximiliano Meza, with Claudio Echeverri, Facundo Colidio, and Pablo Solari forming the attacking trio.

Notably absent from the lineup is Paulo Díaz, recently returned from international duty, and Germán Pezzella, who remains sidelined due to injury. Federico Gattoni, who recently joined from San Lorenzo and Sevilla, has been chosen to step into the starting lineup. Gattoni is making his third appearance since his arrival, following a partial appearance in the Superclásico and another match where he was sent off against Defensa y Justicia.

Independiente Rivadavia, managed by Alfredo Berti, is fielding a competitive eleven as well, including Ezequiel Centurión in goal and Sebastián Villa leading the front line, hoping to capitalize on any counter-attacking opportunities. Villa already showcased his speed and skill by scoring a cross-goal shot early in the match, taking advantage of a precise pass from his teammate Diego Tonetto.

River Plate enters this match with the knowledge that a win could significantly enhance their title contention prospects. Currently trailing Vélez by five points, a victory would keep them well within reach with twelve more points still available over the remainder of the season.