Independiente Rivadavia – River
Independiente Rivadavia had to settle for a point in a match that had looked favorable away to Racing Club, as they ended up drawing 1-1 despite playing against ten men from the 31st minute. Nevertheless, La Lepra continue to produce an excellent campaign: they are top of Group B and the overall standings with 16 points, and they have lost only one of their last nine league matches — recording six wins and two draws in that span. At home, Independiente have won three and lost one so far in 2026. River Plate gave Marcelo Gallardo the best possible farewell to his second spell in charge last Thursday, defeating Banfield 3–1 at home without major difficulties. With that result, El Millonario ended a four-match winless run in the league — one draw and three defeats — and moved into the playoff places in Group B with ten points. On the downside, River have taken only one point from the last nine available away from home. Marcelo Escudero will take charge as interim coach on Monday following Gallardo’s departure. Independiente Rivadavia are the surprise so far of this tournament and leaders of Group B, and I can’t see why they should be underdogs against this River with an interim coach after legend Marcelo Gallardo decided to leave due to poor results. Goalkeeper Armani and playmaker Juanfer Quintero are injured making them weaker so I have to trust the hosts at least not to lose.