Racing Avellaneda — River Plate : Match Preview and Prediction for October 03,2025

Racing Avellaneda’s Stellar Cup Form

Racing Avellaneda, known as ‘La Academia’, approaches this quarter-final clash in exceptional form, particularly in cup competitions. The team successfully reached the semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores, eliminating Vélez Sarsfield, which underscores their readiness for knockout-stage matches. In the current campaign, Racing has swept aside opponents with impressive victories: 3-0 against Deportivo Riestra, 3-1 against San Martín de San Juan, and another dominant 3-0 win over Santamarina. This remarkable consistency makes them the first team in the tournament’s history to score three goals in three consecutive matches.

Potent Attack & Midfield Absences

Racing’s formidable attack, spearheaded by Adrián ‘Maravilla’ Martínez, poses a significant threat to any defense. Alongside him, goal-oriented players like Santiago Solari and Tomás Conechny are expected to feature. However, the squad isn’t without its challenges, as key personnel issues could disrupt the team’s balance. The absence of crucial central midfielders Juan Nardoni and Matías Zaracho due to injuries has been confirmed, potentially disrupting established partnerships in the midfield.

Marcos Rojo’s Anticipated Return

Furthermore, seasoned defender Marcos Rojo makes his return to the squad. He boasts a positive head-to-head record against River Plate, but there’s a crucial caveat: due to registration specifics, he has missed considerable time and has only played two matches for Racing, with his last appearance dating back to August. This lack of recent match practice at such a high level could prove to be a vulnerability, which the opponent’s strong attack might exploit.

River Plate’s Unprecedented Crisis

The ‘Millionaires’ are currently enduring a genuine crisis. Marcelo Gallardo’s side enters this crucial fixture burdened by a four-match losing streak, a consecutive run not seen since 2010. The club was eliminated from the Copa Libertadores by Palmeiras, suffering defeats in both legs (1-2 at home and 1-3 away). Domestically, they lost to Atlético Tucumán (0-2) and, perhaps most tellingly, suffered a shocking home defeat to the relatively modest Deportivo Riestra (1-2).

Defensive Fragility and Lack of Cohesion

River Plate’s defense is currently its most glaring vulnerability. The statistics speak volumes: both teams have scored in four of River Plate’s last five matches. Furthermore, in three of their last four outings, the ‘Millionaires’ conceded the opening goal. Gallardo is forced to urgently reshuffle his defensive line, recalling Gonzalo Montiel and Lautaro Rivero, which highlights a concerning lack of defensive cohesion and stability.

River Plate’s Potent Attack and Salas’s Vendetta

Despite their defensive woes, River Plate’s attack remains one of the most potent in the country. Players of the caliber of Juan Quintero, Facundo Colidio, and Giuliano Galoppo are capable of conjuring scoring opportunities out of thin air. Particular attention will be on Maximiliano Salas. His transfer from Racing to River was controversial, and this will be his first match against his former club. Salas has already scored in the Copa Libertadores for his new team and will undoubtedly step onto the field with an exceptionally strong motivation.