On Sunday, February 22, 2026, River Plate, coached by Marcelo Gallardo, will compete against Vélez Sarsfield, led by Guillermo Barros Schelotto, in a crucial match at the José Amalfitani Stadium in Liniers, Buenos Aires. This interzonal clash is part of the sixth round of the Apertura 2026 tournament, and kickoff is scheduled for 19:15, officiated by referee Darío Herrera.

The match highlights contrasting circumstances for both teams: Vélez is dealing with a key midfield injury, as Chilean player Diego Valdés is sidelined. This has led to a tactical decision for Barros Schelotto regarding Valdés's replacement, with Rodrigo Aliendro and Lucas Robertone vying for the position. Additionally, four players from Vélez have previous connections to River Plate, adding an intriguing layer to the match as they square off against their former club.

On the River side, the return of goalkeeper Franco Armani, who has just recovered from an injury, is a notable boost. His performance could significantly impact the game's dynamics, especially in light of the defensive adjustments expected by Gallardo. As both teams look to solidify their positions in the early stages of the tournament, this match not only tests their current form but also sets the tone for the competition ahead.