The euphoria over the qualification has not yet faded at Estudiantes, but the management is already working to resolve the first issues left by the victory against Corinthians.
While the team enjoys advancing to the next round, Juan Sebastián Verón and the management already have two priority matters: defining the venue for the next match and seeking alternatives due to the numerous absences that Alexander Medina will face.
Estudiantes will have two suspended defenders
The Uruguayan coach will not be able to count on Tomás Palacios and Leandro González Pirez for the first semifinal match. Both were cautioned in the match played at the Neo Química Arena and must serve a one-match suspension.
González Pirez and Palacios, the suspended players in Estudiantes
These absences are compounded by an even greater concern: Joaquín Correa had to leave the field 15 minutes into the second half due to a muscle strain.
The forward will undergo tests to determine the extent of the injury. However, the initial feelings point to a possible tear in the left hamstring, which could leave him out of the series.
Will Estudiantes seek a reinforcement for the Libertadores?
The scenario of absences has led the León management to reconsider the possibility of signing a high-caliber player to face the next stage.
Among the alternatives, the name of Marcos Rojo emerged, an old acquaintance of the institution. The defender could have a third stint at Estudiantes, although first the ties with the fans would need to be repaired after his recent time at Boca.
Marcos Rojo, currently at Racing de Avellaneda
The possibility will depend on whether existing differences can be overcome and eventually an apology is made. The club is considering all options while Medina begins to outline an alternative defense.
The problem for Estudiantes to play at UNO
The other concern is related to the home ground. Estudiantes wants to play the semifinal at the UNO stadium, but there is a difficulty related to Conmebol's requirements.
The La Plata venue has a capacity of approximately 32,000 spectators, but the club cannot guarantee the 4,000 tickets for visitors that the South American organization demands.
For this reason, the management has already made inquiries to Conmebol and has started the process to try to maintain home ground advantage at their stadium. However, it will also be necessary to have the opponent's approval.
Verón referred to the situation and made the club's intention clear: “We will do everything possible to play at UNO. Obviously, it will depend a lot on Flamengo, if they advance. We need to study and do everything possible to make it happen, and if not, we will look for a home ground.”
One of the alternatives could be the Estadio Único Diego Armando Maradona in La Plata, although it is currently unavailable. Regarding this possibility, Verón stated: “It is not available, but we can talk, we can make a call.”
