Unión are already in Córdoba, with Belgrano in their sights | OneFootball

There was no time for long celebrations at Unión and, as soon as qualification in Mendoza was secured after the 2-1 win over Independiente Rivadavia, the squad turned the page and switched into Apertura quarterfinal mode for the clash against Belgrano at the Gigante de Alberdi.

With hopes running high after the victory over the Mendoza-based Lepra, the red-and-white delegation traveled directly to Córdoba to remain in camp and prepare for next Tuesday’s match against Belgrano. The kickoff time has yet to be confirmed, but behind closed doors the operation is already fully underway.

Key players to watch at Unión

Amid the anticipation, there are two names drawing much of the attention of Leonardo Madelón’s coaching staff: Cristian Tarragona and Marcelo Estigarribia.

Both made a huge effort to be available in Mendoza. They arrived only just fit enough, played in a highly demanding match, and finished with clear signs of fatigue. That is why, from now until Tuesday, they will be monitored constantly to determine how they progress and whether they are in optimal condition to start again. Chelo asked for massage treatment several times during the match, so he clearly pushed himself to the limit. Likewise, Mauro Pittón took a hard kick in the first half that left him hurting, yet he still completed the full 90 minutes. A lot of banged-up players with little time to recover.

The good news for Madelón is that, beyond those issues, the rest of the squad should be available. An important detail at a stage where every option can prove decisive. At Unión they know that the hardest part is often not getting there, but staying there. So while the dream keeps growing, so does the need to manage energy, recover key players, and arrive at another knockout battle in one piece.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.