Fresh off a commanding 3-1 victory over Independiente Petrolero in Bolivia to open their Copa Sudamericana campaign, Racing Club enjoyed a well-earned rest day on Wednesday. But there's no time to linger on that success, as manager Gustavo Costas is already fully focused on the colossal domestic clash awaiting his side this Sunday at 20:00: a home fixture against arch-rivals River Plate at the Estadio Presidente Perón in Avellaneda.
With player fitness and recovery as the top priority, Costas is planning significant rotations to his starting eleven. In a strategic move, only two players from the midweek win are expected to retain their spots: goalkeeper Facundo Cambeses and the in-form striker Adrián "Maravilla" Martínez. The major boost for the "Academy" will be the return of veteran leader Marcos Rojo. The 35-year-old defender stayed behind from the Bolivia trip to fine-tune his conditioning and is set to marshal the defense against the attacking threat of the "Millonario."
The anticipated lineup suggests a refreshed Racing side, likely featuring key figures like Santiago Sosa and Tomás Conechny, who were rested or saw limited action on the continental stage. By banking on fresh legs and tactical adjustments, Costas's squad aims to harness their home-field advantage and secure a crucial three points against Eduardo Coudet's River Plate in what promises to be a thrilling Argentine football spectacle.
