Club Atlético River Plate is experiencing a positive week with the return of a club legend to its structure and a first team climbing the Clausura tournament table. The club sits tenth in the Liga Profesional Argentina with 10 points from 8 games, following a 3-1 win over Independiente Rivadavia on September 6.
What role will Mostaza Merlo have at River?
Reinaldo Carlos 'Mostaza' Merlo, 76, has returned to work at the club after two decades. His new role will not be as a coach, but as an observer and advisor for the youth divisions, from the Ninth to the Fourth category. Merlo, the player who has worn the Millonario shirt the most times, expressed his happiness about the return. "This makes me very happy because I am returning home. River is my home," said the seven-time champion with the club.
The historic former footballer began working at the RiverCamp in Ezeiza last weekend. His work will focus on supporting the youngsters, contributing his experience and sense of belonging. Gabriel Rodríguez, general coordinator of the Youth Academy, highlighted the importance of his addition in a conversation with Clarín. Rodríguez noted that Merlo will observe the entire youth setup, including the younger divisions and the Reserve team.
How did River fare in matchday 8 of the Clausura?
The team under the interim management of Leonardo Ponzio secured its second consecutive victory by defeating Independiente Rivadavia 3-1 at the Monumental. La Nación AR Deportes detailed that the goals came from a Gonzalo Montiel penalty and a double from Tomás Galván, who was the standout player. This win allows the Millonario to climb to ninth position in Zone B, according to analysis by ABC Color Deportes.
With this result, River Plate improves its season record to 10 goals for and 9 against, with a +1 difference. The team is 7 points behind leaders Argentinos Juniors in the annual table, a key parameter for international cup qualification. The victory is part of a positive run of three consecutive wins, according to verified data as of September 9.
What changes are noticeable with Ponzio in charge?
Since taking over following the departure of Eduardo Coudet, the team has shown tangible evolution in its play and results. La Nación AR Deportes, in an article by Claudio Mauri, described how River "is starting to become a different team" under Ponzio's interim leadership. The team has scored three goals in each of its two recent matches, demonstrating greater offensive solidity.
Despite a tournament start with four consecutive defeats, the Núñez side has managed to recover. The team now shows more confidence and has managed to secure two-goal advantages that provide a cushion against late scares. This Sunday they had a strong start to the second half with combinations and clear goal-scoring opportunities, although they later suffered with Arce's consolation goal and a Sequeira shot that hit the crossbar.
What does this moment mean for the season?
The three-game winning streak places River in a more comfortable position heading into the second half of the Clausura. The team faces a key match against Atlético Tucumán, who are fourth in the table, next on September 12. Fans can follow the full schedule on our fixtures page and check the updated standings.
The addition of Merlo to the youth structure represents a bet on the club's identity in its academy. Meanwhile, the first team aims to maintain its positive momentum to get into the fight for the play-offs. With 8 matchdays remaining in the regular phase, every point will be valuable. The next away challenge will test the consistency of Ponzio's team.
