More markets for the Copa Sudamericana game, scheduled for August 19 at 8:30 PM ET.
River Plate enters the CONMEBOL Sudamericana round-of-16 first leg against Independiente Santa Fe as the clear favorite, backed by stronger squad depth and recent continental pedigree despite several key absences. Long-term injuries to defenders Juan Portillo and Agustín Ruberto, plus thigh and knee issues for Ángel Correa and Aníbal Moreno, limit options in attack and midfield ahead of the August 12–13 clash at high-altitude El Campín in Bogotá. Santa Fe arrives with solid recent form after advancing past Caracas and competitive league results, relying on home support and familiar conditions to press for an early advantage in the two-legged tie. Historical head-to-head results heavily favor River, though the visitors face a short turnaround and travel demands that could influence starting lineups and rotation decisions.