River: Acuña ruled out of Barracas Central opener | OneFootball

Marcos Acuña has been ruled out of River’s Apertura opener against Barracas Central because of a foot knock, with Matías Viña to cover at left-back.

According to SuperDepor.com, Marcelo Gallardo will wait until the last moment on Franco Armani’s fitness, while Ulises Giménez remains with the squad after a centre-back signing fell through.

River resumed training after a penalty shoot-out win over Peñarol and chose not to risk Acuña. He has been out since a stamp against Racing on 24 November, missing formal work and friendlies throughout pre-season.

Viña will make his official debut. The Uruguayan impressed in early minutes and stood out in the second friendly.

Armani completes 21 days of recovery from a right calf tear on Saturday, and the coach will decide whether to include him or allow another week. Young keeper Santiago Beltrán’s progress reduces the need to hurry him back.

With the back line largely set, attention turns to midfield and attack. Fausto Vera and Aníbal Moreno are in line to start, while Kevin Castaño could be replaced by a more attacking option, with Giuliano Galoppo, Tomás Galván or Santiago Lencina under consideration. Juan Fernando Quintero would play behind Facundo Colidio and Sebastián Driussi, though Maximiliano Salas is also in the frame, with decisions due on Thursday.

Source: SuperDepor.com