Driussi is nearing a return and aims for the match in Colombia with River

River Plate is preparing for the match on Sunday against Argentinos Juniors with an eye on Sebastián Driussi's recovery. The center forward is close to receiving medical clearance after the tear in his right soleus that kept him sidelined for the past few weeks.

At the Núñez club, they do not intend to rush the player's return. Although he could respond well and make it onto Eduardo Coudet's list of call-ups, the chances of him being available for the home match are low. It is most likely that his return will be aimed at the trip to Colombia to face Independiente Santa Fe in the Copa Sudamericana.

The suspension of the match in Bogotá due to the earthquake that affected the Colombian capital created a long week of work. This extra time allowed the squad to make progress in the recovery of several players ahead of the demanding schedule ahead.

Driussi did not participate in any of the five consecutive defeats that River has accumulated this semester. The injury occurred before the elimination against Aldosivi in the Copa Argentina, and since then the forward has been out of action.

Internal competition and the return of other players

When he returns, the former Austin FC player will find himself in a strong battle for the center forward position. Rafael Santos Borré, Lucas Beltrán, and Ángel Correa are the main contenders. Correa is adapting to playing further back and closer to the left, making Borré and Beltrán the most direct competition.

Neither of the two has fully convinced with their performance, which would facilitate Driussi's return once he regains full fitness. The player arrives at a key moment for the team, which needs goals and quality in the attack.

Meanwhile, Marcos Acuña is also nearing the end of his recovery. The left-back suffered a tear in his right hamstring during the match against Gimnasia in La Plata and could be available for the Sudamericana series. His presence is crucial as he is the only specialist in his position registered for the continental competition.

If Acuña does not make it in time, Coudet will have to turn to Lautaro Rivero or Facundo González, left-footed defenders who can be repurposed. Mauro Arambarri's case is different: the midfielder is suffering from a left ankle sprain and is expected to return only for the match against Vélez next weekend. Additionally, he is not registered for the Sudamericana.