River Plate is set to debut in a new edition of the Copa Libertadores, beginning its journey in the tournament against Universitario de Perú. The match will take place at El Monumental de Lima.

Marcelo Gallardo's Dilemmas

Manager Marcelo "Muñeco" Gallardo has a few key decisions to make as he looks to start the Group B campaign on the right foot. Paulo Díaz, who missed the game against Rosario Central, is expected to return to the starting lineup. This forces Gallardo to choose between Germán Pezzella and Lucas Martínez Quarta in defense.

Another potential change could come in midfield, as Giuliano Galoppo is unlikely to travel due to discomfort in his left leg. Given this situation, and considering the strong debut performance of Colombian Kevin Castaño, he could be in line for his first start with the Millonarios.

In attack, Facundo Colidio has recovered from his muscle injury and will travel with the squad. However, the decision remains whether he or Sebastián Driussi will partner with Miguel "Colibrí" Borja, the team’s main attacking reference.

Probable River Plate Lineup:

Franco Armani; Fabricio Bustos, Paulo Díaz, Germán Pezzella or Lucas Martínez Quarta, Marcos Acuña; Rodrigo Aliendro or Kevin Castaño, Enzo Pérez, Maxi Meza; Franco Mastantuono, Facundo Colidio or Sebastián Driussi, Miguel Borja.

Universitario’s Injury Concerns

On the other side, Universitario will be without two key starters due to injury: Martín Pérez Guedes and Matías Di Benedetto. Their coach, Fabián Bustos, faces the challenge of restructuring his team while also keeping an eye on the upcoming clásico against Alianza Lima.

The Club World Cup on the Horizon

Beyond the Copa Libertadores, River Plate is also preparing for the 2025 Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13. The tournament will feature 32 teams from around the globe, with River placed in Group E, alongside Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan), Monterrey (Mexico), and Inter Milan (Italy).