River Hit by Paulo Díaz Injury Blow Ahead of Superclásico vs Boca

River Plate have suffered a major setback ahead of their crucial showdown with Boca Juniors. According to RedGol, Chilean international Paulo Díaz has sustained a hamstring tear in his right leg, an injury that ESPN journalist Gustavo Yarroch confirmed will sideline him for at least three weeks. The injury occurred during a sprint to cover a defensive lapse against Talleres, a move that ultimately ended in a goal.

Díaz's absence means he will miss two key fixtures: the Superclásico on April 27 and River's Copa Libertadores clash with Independiente del Valle on April 23. The defender had started alongside Lucas Martínez-Quarta in central defense but was replaced by Germán Pezzella following the muscle strain.

The timing couldn't be worse for manager Marcelo Gallardo. Martínez Quarta is currently on four yellow cards, and another booking in the upcoming match against Gimnasia would rule him out of the clash with Boca. With limited options, Gallardo may have to turn to Leandro González Pírez as River navigate a demanding schedule, including a trip to Ecuador.

The Superclásico is fast approaching, and River are facing defensive uncertainty at the worst possible moment. Gallardo, back at the helm this season, will be hoping his squad can hold together as they enter one of the defining stretches of their campaign.