The match between Vélez and River Plate will be a real test of character for River. River will be without its on-field leaders, and in this case, Guillermo Barros Schelotto could become the 'GPS' for the team. On the other hand, Vélez is hungry to deliver a blow and confirm its ambitions for the season. For Guillermo, this is a chance to deliver the knockout punch and at the same time secure home-field advantage in the Round of 16. The tension in River's camp is high: even a win or a draw is no guarantee of playing in the Copa Libertadores. On Saturday, San Lorenzo drew with Sarmiento, which guaranteed them a spot in the playoffs, but did not improve their position in the table. This slightly eased River's task, but did not lift the main burden—the historical rivalry. Marcelo Gallardo understands this and so he made a bold move: in the last call-up, he did not call the questionable Paulo Díaz or Miguel Ángel Borja, but instead took nine young players. The lineup for the game will be different. Although Gallardo has his regulars (Armani, Portillo, Rivero, Quintero, Driussi, Salas), he may opt for some youngsters to bring vitality to the team. Will Santiago Lencina start? Guillermo Barros Schelotto will be looking for the decisive blow that could serve as a small revenge for the final in Madrid. Will there be minutes for Agustín Obregón or Thiago Acosta? Again, everything will depend on the configuration the coach chooses in this sensitive clash against an opponent who needs to win to secure home-field advantage in the Round of 16. Gallardo is thinking about the team, considering that Riestrano passed the annual report.
