Coudet: River Played as It Could in Bogotá, Highlights Altitude and Borré Clash

Coach Eduardo Coudet explained why River Plate played “as it could” in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana round of 16 against Independiente Santa Fe, citing the 2600‑meter altitude and squad absences. He also recalled the clash with Rafael Santos Borré and said he expects to bring back Gonzalo Montiel, Marcos Acuña and Sebastián Driussi for the return leg.

Result and Altitude

Coach Eduardo Coudet described the 0‑0 draw against Independiente Santa Fe as a “great point” and explained that the match was affected by Bogotá’s 2600‑meter altitude. “We all felt the 2600 meters,” he said in the press conference. River started with more possession, but the local team had clearer chances and Nahuel Bustos hit the post twice in the first half. As the game progressed, the visiting side lost intensity and the home side took the lead.

Reduced Squad and Tactical Adjustments

Coudet noted that the team adapted as best as possible, using players in unfamiliar positions. “We were lucky not to suffer defensive setbacks because we had no replacements,” he said. The coach added that he did not have everyone available and that “we hope to play a great game and give the pass to our fans.” The tie will be decided next Wednesday at 21:30 at the Monumental.

The Clash with Borré and Expected Returns

During the first half, Coudet had a heated exchange with Colombian forward Rafael Santos Borré. When Borré asked him to calm down, the coach responded angrily: “¡Cerrá el culo!” The incident did not lead to further trouble, and the two shook hands when Borré left the field for Thiago Almada’s entry.

Coudet also previewed three key returns for the second leg: “For the return, Montiel, Acuña, Driussi should be fine. We’ll arrive much more complete.”

Conclusion

River will return from Bogotá with the tie open and the expectation of bringing back players to face the decisive match at the Monumental. Coudet did not hide that the performance was far from what he wants, but he found explanations in the context and valued having passed the first chapter without disadvantage. His summary was brief and clear: River did not play as it wanted, but “as it could.”