Overview
- Lucas Martínez Quarta will miss the Racing game after receiving his fifth yellow card in the match with Belgrano, forcing River to replace a regular centre-back.
- Local reports say Lautaro Rivero is the favored replacement to pair with Nicolás Otamendi, with Tobías Ramírez viewed as a less likely option.
- Marcos Acuña suffered shoulder and instep blows in the draw with Sarmiento, missed the Belgrano match and remains a fitness doubt to reclaim the left-back spot from Francisco Ortega.
- Diario Uno and TN present a probable River starting eleven that reflects these uncertainties but note the lineup is a projection rather than an official club confirmation.
- River sits sixth in Zona B with a slim points cushion and three league matches left, so Ponzio’s defensive choices could directly affect the team’s chances of reaching the playoffs.