Independiente Rivadavia vs Fluminense – News and Probable Lineups

Independiente Rivadavia is set to host Fluminense at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas for a Group C clash in the Copa Libertadores. The home team is looking to secure a vital step towards qualification, while their opponents are eager to keep their hopes alive.

The Argentine club currently leads the group with a flawless record after three matches, while the Brazilian team finds itself at the bottom and faces potential elimination if they do not achieve a positive result in Mendoza.

Match overview

Independiente Rivadavia approaches this match on the verge of a significant milestone, as a win could bring them close to qualifying in their inaugural Copa Libertadores season.

The club based in Mendoza has been one of the tournament’s surprising stories, bringing in nine points from a maximum of nine and matching a historic feat previously accomplished only by River Plate in 1966 and Estudiantes in 1968 — winning their first three group stage matches.

Their most notable victory occurred in the reverse encounter, where they achieved an impressive 2-1 comeback win at the Maracana, showcasing both their resolve and attacking prowess on the continental stage.

This performance was complemented by a dominant 4-1 victory against Deportivo La Guaira, raising their tally to seven goals in three matches, emphasizing their effectiveness in front of goal.

In domestic competitions, Independiente Rivadavia is also performing exceptionally well, currently enjoying a 10-match unbeaten streak across all tournaments, with eight victories and two draws. Their latest outing ended in a 1-1 draw with Aldosivi, although coach Alfredo Berti made significant rotations in anticipation of this crucial match.

Back on their home turf, expected to field a full-strength side supported by passionate fans in Mendoza, the hosts will be confident in their ability to sustain their momentum and inch closer to the knockout round.

In sharp contrast, Fluminense arrives under significant pressure – the 2023 Libertadores title holders have faced a challenging group-stage campaign, securing only one point from their first three matches.

Their journey started with a 0-0 draw against Deportivo La Guaira, followed by a defeat at home to Rivadavia and a 2-0 loss away to Bolivar at altitude — a series of results that has placed them at the bottom of the group with just one goal scored and four conceded.

While Luis Zubeldia’s team has demonstrated more consistency in domestic play, currently sitting third in the Brazilian Championship with 26 points from 14 matches, their preparations for this match suffered a setback following a 2-0 defeat to Internacional in their last match, where multiple key players were rested.

With their qualification not entirely in their control anymore, Fluminense must seek to secure maximum points, while relying on favorable outcomes elsewhere, making this a crucial match in every sense.

Team News

Independiente Rivadavia enters this match with a fully fit squad, having rested all their key players in the draw against Aldosivi to ensure they’re fresh for this important Libertadores clash.

Prominent figures like Alex Arce and Sartori are likely to return to the starting XI, supported by a midfield that has skillfully blended defensive strength with attacking opportunities throughout the tournament.

Fluminense, on the other hand, has received a positive boost with Lucho Acosta’s return from a knee injury, although he is anticipated to start on the bench with limited playing time.

Luciano is ready and available, while Nonato has also returned to fitness after a lengthy absence. However, the visitors will miss Facundo Bernal due to suspension, and Matheus Martinelli continues to be sidelined with a thigh injury.

Independiente Rivadavia probable starting XI:

Bolcato; Bonifacio, Villalba, Studer, Gomez; Fernandez, Bottari, Florentin, Sartori; Villa, Arce

Fluminense probable starting XI:

Fabius; Guga, Jemmes, Freytes, Rene; Hercules, Alisson, Savarino, Canobbio, Soteldo; Castle

Independiente Rivadavia carries the momentum into this matchup, boasting strong form, home advantage, and an impeccable record in the group stages.

While Fluminense remains a threat, they are under pressure and have exhibited inconsistency in the tournament, especially in away fixtures. Considering the differing trajectories, the hosts seem well-positioned to secure a narrow victory and come closer to a momentous qualification.