Independiente Set for Key Copa Sudamericana Clash Against Guaraní

Independiente are heading to Paraguay with their strongest available lineup to face Guaraní in Matchday 3 of the Copa Sudamericana group stage, according to TyC Sports. As they await the rescheduling of their suspended domestic match against Atlético Tucumán, the focus shifts entirely to continental competition.

The most notable absence is Santiago Montiel, who will miss the trip due to an ongoing pubalgia issue. On a positive note, midfielder Luciano Cabral has recovered and will be available for the clash at Estadio Defensores del Chaco.

Defender Sebastián Valdez is also under observation after training separately on Sunday, though he is expected to be fit to start. One remaining tactical decision involves Felipe Loyola: if coach Julio Vaccari deploys him at right-back, Pablo Galdames would partner Iván Marcone and Cabral in midfield. However, if Loyola starts in midfield as in previous games, Galdames might be left out of the starting XI.

The expected lineup for the Argentine side includes Rodrigo Rey; Loyola, Kevin Lomónaco, Valdez, Álvaro Angulo; Galdames (or Loyola), Marcone, Cabral; Lautaro Millán, Gabriel Ávalos, and Diego Tarzia.

With 4 points from two matches, a win in Paraguay would place Independiente in a strong position to qualify from Group F and inject momentum into a season marked by ups and downs.