River Plate returns to action this Sunday, traveling to Córdoba to face Estudiantes de Río Cuarto in a crucial match on the twelfth matchday of the 2026 Apertura tournament. Having secured consecutive victories under manager Eduardo Coudet, Los Millonarios aim to continue their climb up the Zona B standings.
Coudet’s arrival has sparked a positive shift for River, with wins over Huracán and Sarmiento providing a solid foundation. Notably, the manager has maintained an unchanged starting eleven in those two matches, but now faces a decision on whether to stick with a winning formula or introduce some tactical adjustments for the trip to Córdoba.
Coudet Considers Changes to Attacking Lineup
The backline and goalkeeper positions appear settled. Santiago Beltrán has been impressive in goal and will retain his place. Gonzalo Montiel will start at right-back, with Lucas Martínez Quarta and Lautaro Rivero forming the central defensive partnership, and Marcos Acuña on the left. These selections provide a familiar and stable base for River.
Aníbal Moreno and Fausto Vera are expected to anchor the midfield, providing both defensive solidity and creative impetus. Tomás Galván is too pushing for a starting role. The primary selection dilemma for Coudet lies in the final midfield spot, with Kendry Páez, Juanfer Quintero, and Joaquín Freitas all vying for inclusion. Páez has started the previous two matches under Coudet, but Freitas reportedly featured in the starting lineup during a recent training session, suggesting a potential change.
Should Freitas earn the nod, he would likely join Ian Subiabre and Sebastián Driussi in the attacking line. Subiabre and Driussi have been key contributors in recent games, and Coudet will be looking for them to provide a goal threat against Estudiantes.
Possible River Plate Starting XI
Based on recent form and training indications, the likely River Plate lineup is: Santiago Beltrán; Gonzalo Montiel, Lucas Martínez Quarta, Lautaro Rivero, Marcos Acuña; Aníbal Moreno, Fausto Vera, Tomás Galván, Páez or Quintero or Freitas; Ian Subiabre, and Sebastián Driussi.
River Plate will be without Facundo Colidio for this match, as the AFA confirmed a two-match suspension following his sending-off against Huracán. This absence presents a challenge for Coudet, but also an opportunity for another player to step up and craft an impact.
Match Details and Venue Information
River Plate will face Estudiantes de Río Cuarto this Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 17:45 local time (19:45 UTC). The match will be played at the Estadio Antonio Candini in Río Cuarto, Córdoba province. The stadium underwent recent renovations specifically to accommodate this fixture.
The match represents an important opportunity for River to build momentum in the Apertura tournament. A victory would see them climb the Zona B standings and strengthen their position in the race for a playoff spot. Estudiantes de Río Cuarto, recently promoted to the Primera División, will be eager to make a statement against one of Argentina’s biggest clubs.
The team will be looking to continue their positive momentum, but will require to navigate the challenges posed by a motivated Estudiantes side and the absence of the suspended Colidio. Coudet’s final decision on the midfield selection will be a key factor in determining River’s approach to the match.
Following this match, River Plate will turn their attention to the CONMEBOL Sudamericana, with the fixture list now confirmed. Fans can find details on the tournament schedule and match times on the CONMEBOL website.
What are your thoughts on Coudet’s potential lineup? Share your predictions and analysis in the comments below.
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