River Squad to Face Argentinos Juniors: Includes Freitas and Páez, Excludes Vera
River Plate aims to bounce back after a disappointing loss to Tigre when they face Argentinos Juniors. This match is part of the fifth round of Zone B in the 2026 Apertura Tournament. Scheduled for Thursday, February 12, at 21:15, the encounter has significant implications for both teams.
Key Players for River Plate
- Joaquín Freitas: A 19-year-old forward, Freitas is expected to play alongside Agustín Ruberto. He steps in due to Sebastián Driussi’s injury and the underperformance of other forwards.
- Kendry Páez: The 18-year-old Ecuadorian midfielder also joins the squad. He recently joined on loan from Chelsea after a stint at Racing de Estrasburgo.
Previous Experience
This will mark Freitas’ second call-up to the first team. His debut came in November 2025, where he played 16 minutes in a goalless draw against Vélez at Estadio José Amalfitani.
Absent Players
- Fausto Vera: Excluded due to an unexpected red card in the loss to Tigre.
- Franco Armani: Missing the tournament due to a calf strain and subsequent heel inflammation.
How to Watch the Match
The match between River Plate and Argentinos Juniors will be officiated by Andrés Merlos, with Silvio Trucco as video assistant referee (VAR). Fans can tune in to the exclusive TNT Sports Premium channel to watch the game.
Additionally, live updates will be available on La Página Millonaria’s website and their YouTube channel, featuring live commentary by Renzo Pantich.
Projected Lineup for River Plate
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Santiago Beltrán |
| Defense | Gonzalo Montiel, Lucas Martínez Quarta, Lautaro Rivero, Marcos Acuña |
| Midfield | Giuliano Galoppo, Aníbal Moreno, Tomás Galván |
| Forward | Juanfer Quintero, Facundo Colidio, Maxi Salas |
As River prepares for this crucial matchup, fans are eager to see how the team will adapt following their recent performance and the new additions to the squad.
