River Plate returned to training at the River Camp in Ezeiza with a depleted squad due to international call-ups, prompting coaching staff to organize an informal behind-closed-doors friendly match against Vélez Sarsfield this weekend to maintain player rhythm during the FIFA international break, according to regional sports reports.
International Call-Ups and Squad Absences at River Camp
The Buenos Aires club resumed its training schedule under a reduced roster following recent fixtures. According to regional sports coverage, players Santiago Beltrán, Tobías Andrada, and Thiago Almada were initially missing from the Wednesday session after receiving call-ups from Argentina national team manager Lionel Scaloni.
However, squad availability shifted when attacking midfielder Thiago Almada was subsequently released from national team duty due to an injury sustained during River’s recent 2-1 defeat against Huracán. Almada will return directly to River Camp to begin his recovery process, though he remains expected to take part in a tribute match for Lionel Messi scheduled for October 6 at the Estadio Monumental.
Planning the Vélez Sarsfield Friendly Match
Faced with an extended break from official competition, coaching staff under Leonardo Ponzio are utilizing informal scrimmages to keep the squad sharp. Reports indicate that River is arranging a closed-door friendly fixture against Vélez Sarsfield for the upcoming weekend. Vélez is similarly idle due to the international window.
This approach mirrors previous scheduling choices made during earlier FIFA breaks. Following victories against Independiente Rivadavia and Atlético Tucumán earlier in the campaign, River organized short training matches against lower-tier or rival squads like All Boys and Estudiantes de Buenos Aires to provide crucial minutes for substitutes and returning players.
Upcoming Schedule and Standings Context
The fixture interruption comes at a critical juncture for River Plate following a 2-1 loss to Huracán that impacted the club’s position in the annual standings. Domestically, River sits eighth in Zona B by goal difference—occupying the final playoff qualification spot—and holds eighth place in the annual table with 42 points, sitting nine points behind leaders Independiente Rivadavia and five points shy of Boca Juniors for the final Copa Libertadores qualification berth.
While official match dates remain subject to final confirmation, league fixtures point toward a busy resumption. River is slated to face Estudiantes de Río Cuarto on Saturday, October 10, at the Monumental, followed by a rescheduled match against Sarmiento for the 11th round on Wednesday, October 14.
Next Steps and Official Updates
River Plate will continue training sessions at Ezeiza through the remainder of the international window, pending official confirmation of the weekend friendly against Vélez. Supporters can follow official club channels and verified sports media outlets for final kickoff details and squad fitness updates ahead of the October 10 clash against Estudiantes de Río Cuarto.
