Overview

• River enters the quarterfinal on a four‑match losing streak that includes Copa Libertadores elimination and a 2-1 home loss to Deportivo Riestra, its worst run since 2010.
• Marcelo Gallardo plans at least three changes, with Gonzalo Montiel set to replace Fabricio Bustos and Lautaro Rivero returning to central defense, as he recalibrates a struggling XI.
• Captain Enzo Pérez is considered unlikely to feature due to a knee wound that required seven stitches, with Juan Portillo projected to start in holding midfield.
• Racing expects Marcos Rojo to be available for cup selection, while attackers Santiago Solari and Luciano Vietto are being monitored for physical issues after recent knocks and workload.
• Oscar Ruggeri publicly criticized Gallardo's post‑match conduct, Gallardo apologized and labeled the clash a 'final,' and Sergio Goycochea signaled the coach's continuity is not currently in doubt.