Gallardo’s River Plate Faces Off at Guillermo Laza for the First Time: Will Deportivo Riestra’s 16-Match Home Streak Hold Strong?

“Argentinian football isn’t easy on the heart,” is a phrase that Marcelo Gallardo has uttered time and again during press conferences this year. The esteemed Muñeco touches on the physical demands, the competitive spirit, and the resilience that Argentine players bring to the pitch to level any encounter. This Saturday, River Plate faces a tricky outing. Given their superior budget, quality, and experience, River significantly overshadows Deportivo Riestra. According to Transfermarkt, River’s market valuation stands at an impressive $120 million, while their opponents only boast $7.5 million. However, the scrappy side from Bajo Flores has proven more than a handful at home, remaining unbeaten at the Guillermo Laza stadium for ten months. Despite some inconsistencies away from home, Riestra’s strength as hosts is noteworthy. The team hasn’t tasted defeat on their own turf in 16 matches, with their last setback occurring on May 24 against Rosario Central. In June, Riestra earned a notable 2-0 victory over River, a defeat that severely impacted the trajectory of Martín Demichelis’s leadership. Since that match, they have secured eight triumphs, which includes six wins and eight draws. Gallardo is surely hoping for a repeat of his side's dynamic display against Atlético Tucumán last Sunday. River's attacking play created numerous scoring opportunities, although they converted a mere single goal. Miguel Borja's missed chances are concerning, despite Gallardo's faith in keeping him in the starting lineup, especially with Sebastián Driussi still sidelined. Additionally, River welcomes back Enzo Pérez from suspension, while new recruit Kevin Castaño has been called up to join Colombia’s national team following the match. Gallardo also commended Rodrigo Aliendro's impressive return to form against Tucumán, where he played a pivotal role in midfield. As the weekend clash approaches, Gallardo has nearly finalized his starting eleven, with Franco Armani, Gonzalo Montiel, Germán Pezzella, Paulo Díaz, Aliendro, Enzo Pérez, Maxi Meza, Franco Mastantuono, Facundo Colidio, and Borja set to feature. The last spot in defence will be contested between Milton Casco and Marcos Acuña. With such a blend of talent, River must prepare for a physically demanding battle, as reiterated by their manager, “We must be ready for anything.”