Universidad de Chile prepares for key matches against Unión Española and Colo Colo with several key players returning. After their comeback victory against Deportes Iquique, the upcoming fixtures could set the stage for a strong finish to their season. The absence of important starters was noted in past matches, yet their return promises to bolster the team’s chances.
After a thrilling comeback victory against Deportes Iquique, Universidad de Chile is gearing up for a brief week-long break before diving back into action. The team is set to tackle two important matches, one against Unión Española and the other being the much-anticipated Superclásico against Colo Colo, which was postponed from matchday 7.
Head coach Gustavo Álvarez will welcome back key players for the match against Unión Española on July 5 at Santa Laura. Notable absentees during the Iquique match included Leandro Fernández, Fabián Hormazábal, Charles Aránguiz, and Franco Calderón, all of whom are poised to return. Journalist Marcelo Díaz highlighted the significance of these players: “Hormazábal is the one with the most centers, Fernández has the most assists and shots on goal,” he remarked, emphasizing how much La U struggled without their contributions.
Díaz further noted, “The one with the most interventions and passes is Aránguiz… La U loses a lot without these three players,” pointing to the critical role they fill on the field. Adding to the team’s woes, Franco Calderón’s absence affected their defensive stability, while Maxmiliano Guerrero was also missing due to suspension.
However, U de Chile will be without Rodrigo Contreras for the upcoming match due to a red card received against Iquique. Following the clash with Unión Española, the team will then prepare for the Superclásico against arch-rivals Colo Colo on July 12 at Estadio Nacional.
Afterward, U de Chile will shift focus to international commitments, facing Guaraní from Paraguay in a bid to secure a spot in the round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana 2025. Clearly, it is an exciting time for La U as they navigate through a challenging schedule ahead.
In summary, Universidad de Chile is looking to regain strength with key players returning after a short break, gearing up to face Unión Española and then the Superclásico against Colo Colo. The absence of several starters was felt in their last match, but the return of Leandro Fernández, Fabián Hormazábal, Charles Aránguiz, and Franco Calderón is expected to bolster the team. With significant matchups on the horizon, the pressure is on for La U to perform well and build momentum heading into international play.
Original Source: onefootball.com
