Independiente del Valle boss Javier Rabanal spoke to the media about the final stretch of the season and the Sudamericana clash with Mushuc Runa. He acknowledged that Mushuc Runa is a tricky opponent to study, having changed coaches twice, and he said the key is to focus on what his team can control.
There’s not much information on Mushuc Runa, Rabanal said. They’ve changed coaches twice since the last time we faced them, and the big question is whether they’ll come out attacking like they did against Libertad. There’s little information to go on, so we must concentrate on our own plan.
“Ultimately, we shouldn’t look at the table,” he added. “Mushuc Runa had an impeccable group phase in the Sudamericana. We must respect every opponent and, of course, aim for a favorable result at home that leaves us options for the return leg.”
Rabanal also offered a tactical read on Mushuc Runa: “I think they’ll come out to defend, hit on the counter, and press when possible, trying to keep the goal zero.”
On the international stage, he noted, it’s a different kind of match and not one for youngsters. “We’ll go out with the best we have in the squad. We’re going to give everything because we’re at a crucial moment of the season.”
Regarding the squad, he confirmed that, apart from the injury to Briones, all players are available to start. “We’re targeting players with leadership. We’re in the final stretch of the tournament, and they’ll help guide the younger players through these big matches.”
Looking ahead, he said they’ll evaluate in time whether they’re capable of contending in all three tournaments, and in a single match there may be a need to rotate players with fewer minutes. “We’ll see as it unfolds,” he concluded.
Summary: Independiente del Valle prepares for a high-stakes Sudamericana tie with Mushuc Runa, leaning on leadership and depth to navigate a potentially variable opponent while aiming to secure a favorable first leg at home.
Editorial note: This match could test the squad’s balance between experience and youth, with leadership roles likely to be crucial in guiding younger players through a dense fixture schedule. Fans should watch for Mushuc Runa’s defensive set-up and counter pressure as potential keys to the tie.