Club Atlético River Plate took significant steps in the recovery of its key figures ahead of the Sudamericana round of sixteen return against Independiente Santa Fe. Eduardo Coudet used Monday's training session at the Camp to prepare two world champions and the team's top scorer for the season.
According to Ole, Marcos Acuña, Sebastián Driussi, and Gonzalo Montiel performed high-intensity physical work higher than the rest of the group. Coudet wanted these players to gain match rhythm after several weeks of physical issues. All three also participated in small-sided games to regain match feel.
Sebastian Driussi received final medical clearance after a calf strain. The striker was already part of the squad for the Vélez match, although he started on the bench. His presence is vital for the team needing offensive power as he is the current primary goalscorer.
Gonzalo Montiel also left behind a muscle strain that forced him to leave the match against Argentinos. This kept him out of the first leg against Santa Fe. Now, the world champion seeks to reclaim his spot to provide stability to a defense that must close an open series.
River Plate is undergoing a period of adjustment after the recent 2-2 draw against Vélez Sarsfield on August 23. The team currently sits 14th in the Argentine Professional League with 4 points from 6 matches, recording 1 win, 1 draw, and 4 losses. They trail leaders Sarmiento by 8 points, with the next challenge against Banfield away on August 30.
