The coach of MouthDiego Martínez, has been working intensively to define the team that will face Cruzeiro in the first leg of the round of 16 of the 2024 Copa Sudamericana. This match, which will be played at La Bombonera, is crucial for the xeneize team’s aspirations in the continental tournament.
The technician of Mouth has had to deal with several complications in preparing the team, including injuries and health problems for some key players. However, he has managed to put together a starting eleven that he hopes will be competitive and capable of obtaining a good result at home.
In defence, the coach has decided to go with a central duo made up of Cristian Lema and Gary Medel. This decision was made after several tests in training, where Martínez was not completely satisfied with other combinations.
Lema, who has overcome a recent injury, and Medel, who has shown solidity in training, will be in charge of protecting the goal defended by Sergio Romero. Marcos Rojo, who was suffering from a muscle problem, has been included in the list of those called up, although he is not expected to start due to his physical condition.
Rojo has been a key piece in the defense of Mouthbut his participation in this match will depend on his progress in the coming hours. On the wings, Luis Advíncula will occupy the right-back position, while Lautaro Blanco will be the left-back.
Both players have performed well in recent matches and will be key to containing the Brazilian team’s attacks and supporting offensive transitions. The midfield of Mouth It will be made up of Pol Fernández, Cristian Medina and the young Jabes Saralegui.
Reinforcement
Saralegui’s inclusion in the starting eleven is one of the most notable changes, as the young midfielder has impressed the coaching staff with his performance in training. Brian Aguirre, who arrived from Newell’s in this transfer market, will not be in the starting eleven, but will be available on the bench.
Up front, Edinson Cavani and Miguel Merentiel will form the attacking duo. Cavani, who had been in a feverish state in previous days, has overcome his discomfort and will be ready to face Cruzeiro. His experience and goal-scoring ability will be vital for Mouth in this match. Merentiel, for his part, has proven to be a versatile and effective striker, and is expected to complement Cavani well in attack.
