Union vs River
Union Santa Fe closed up last year in the best possible way: they beat arch-rivals Colon 3-0 and secured a ticket to the Copa Sudamericana (thanks to a run of three wins and one defeat in the last four games). At home, El Tatengue are on two consecutive successes.
River Plate became Liga Profesional champions in the second semester of 2021 after seven years without a league title (and of course they qualified for the Copa Libertadores). However, after securing the crown they took a breather, registering two draws and one loss in three league games. On away turf, El Millonario are on ten matches unbeaten in the league (six wins, four stalemates). Coach Marcelo Gallardo has seven reinforcements at his disposal, including Juan Fernando Quintero (returns from Shenzhen, China) and Esequiel Barco (MLS side Atlanta Utd) while none of the usual starters waved goodbye. Â
If River is playing I have to expect goals, specially with their new offensive signings which should make them an even stronger attacking team.