Coudet explains River's struggles in Bogotá, anticipates player returns

River Plate coach Eduardo Coudet acknowledged the difficulties his team faced in Bogotá, where they drew 0-0 with Independiente Santa Fe in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana.

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A determining role was played by the altitude. It's not insignificant. We all felt the 2,600 meters.

Coudet attributed the performance to the high altitude, stating, "The 2,600 meters affected us all." He also highlighted the impact of player absences, which forced him to use players in unfamiliar positions. "We adapted as best we could, having to use players in positions they are not accustomed to," Coudet said. "We were lucky not to suffer setbacks in defense because we had no replacements. It's a good point; we go home with our people."

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We adapted as best we could, having to use players in positions they are not accustomed to. We were lucky not to suffer setbacks in defense because we had no replacements. It's a good point; we go home with our people.

The coach expressed hope for the return leg, anticipating the availability of Gonzalo Montiel, Marcos Acuña, and Sebastián Driussi. "For the return leg, Montiel, Acuña, and Driussi will surely be fine. We will be much more complete," he stated. The series will be decided next Wednesday at the Monumental stadium.

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For the return leg, Montiel, Acuña, and Driussi will surely be fine. We will be much more complete.

Coudet also addressed an on-field exchange with player Rafael Santos Borré during the first half. Despite the challenges, he remained optimistic about the team's prospects, emphasizing the importance of playing at home for the second leg. "I would have liked them to see football like they saw the other day, but the context was this. We all would have signed the draw beforehand. We are returning home well."

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Here at altitude, the ball speeds up, we would have liked to play much more. But there are the difficulties that arise. We played with the best we had available.