River Plate are determined to secure a spot in the knockout stage as they prepare to take on Monterrey in Group E of the FIFA Club World Cup on Saturday evening.
Los Millonarios kicked off their campaign with a 3-1 win against Urawa Red Diamonds, but the injury to striker Sebastian Driussi, ruling him out of the rest of the tournament, has cast a shadow over their aspirations.
Even though Marcelo Gallardo's team is currently leading the group and on course to advance to the round of 16, they must not underestimate Monterrey.
Rayados managed to hold Champions League finalists Inter Milan to a 1-1 draw in their opening match and have the opportunity to climb above River Plate in the standings with a victory at the Rose Bowl.
River Plate are looking to build on their strong start as they prepare to face Monterrey in their second group stage fixture of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on Saturday.
Team news
Gallardo is facing a shortage of options up front following Driussi's injury, with Miguel Borja likely to step in after replacing the striker against Urawa. Alternatively, Facundo Colidio could move to a central position from the wing, making way for either Maxi Meza or Manuel Lanzini.
Giuliano Galoppo is vying for a spot in midfield and could replace Ignacio Fernandez, while Paulo Diaz may come in for German Pezzella in defense.
Meanwhile, Monterrey are still adjusting to the methods of new manager Domenec Torrent.
Esteban Andrada is expected to retain his place in goal, despite the recent arrival of Uruguayan international Santiago Mele.
Sergio Ramos has been influential at both ends of the pitch for Rayados, leading a team that includes seasoned former La Liga players like Oliver Torres and Sergio Canales.
The stats
River Plate are on an unbeaten streak of 19 matches in regular time, averaging 1.9 goals per game.
Monterrey have won three of their last six games, scoring 10 goals and conceding six in that span.
This will be the first official meeting between the two teams, although they played to a 1-1 draw in a friendly in January 2024.
Both teams have scored in eight of River Plate's last nine games.
Eight of River Plate's last 10 matches have seen three or more goals scored.
Prediction
River Plate displayed their quality against Urawa Red Diamonds, but they might struggle to overcome the resolute and physical Monterrey side.
Rayados have a strong attacking potential, but their defense has had issues keeping clean sheets in recent games.
A similar pattern applies to River Plate, as they have kept just one clean sheet in their last nine matches.
Expect a closely contested match with both teams hitting the back of the net at some stage.