After losing to both Avellaneda teams, Racing Club and Independiente, in the first two initial games of the preseason in Salta, Argentina, River started the year on its left foot. Although these games were preseason matches and River used mostly substitutes on the pitch, there is no excuse to lose so early. Coach Astrada’s men did the best that they could on the pitch but it was not enough to tackle two competitive teams that will surely make their mark in the upcoming ‘Clausura’ tournament.
On Thursday, the 14th, River squared off against Racing Club in what was a three-team, mini-tournament. The winner would move on to play the final, and it would be viewed as an excellent starting point for the Millonarios. River put their substitutes in an effort to weed out those that might have a chance at the starting line-up in the ‘Clausura’ tournament. Racing Club, with their full starting line-up, went out with all force and secured the match with two exceptional goals against River’s goalkeeper, Navarro. River had a hard time controlling possession, causing simple turnovers to convert to dangerous situations for the defense. Fans were left with a sour taste in River’s debut, but they would have another go a few days later.
On Sunday, the 17th, River faced off against Independiente with most of the starting line-up at hand. Ariel Ortega returned to the pitch in this new year and his form was out of this world. Thanks to his gracious moves and ability, River was able to take the lead right before half-time. Besides Ortega, the debut of youngster Erik Lamela was the talk of the fans as River’s future idol made his way up the ranks to the first division squad. In addition, River’s newly acquired player, Rodrigo Rojas, made his debut as well and most fans would agree that his debut was very positive. Unfortunately, the good vibrations in the stands would end in the middle of the second half as Independiente’s striker, Ignacio Piatti, scored two goals to give Independiente the win and proclaim them champions of the mini-tournament.
Next up is Boca Juniors on the 20th in Mendoza, and based on previous off-season matches with the Xeneizes, River has a favorable advantage. Will this ‘Superclasico’ serve as the right game to gain positive momentum for the months to come? Let’s hope it does.
