Alejandro Apud has breathed new life into "Montevideo Wanderers" since taking over as the club's third manager this season. His impressive start (three wins and two draws in five matches) comes just in time for Wednesday's crucial Uruguayan Championship clash against city rivals "Defensor Sporting".
"We've found stability after a difficult period," a club source might say about Apud's impact on the team that struggled terribly under previous managers this season.
The match at Parque Alfredo Victor Viyera Stadium represents a fascinating contrast in styles. "Wanderers" typically deploy a defensive approach with few goals scored or conceded, while "Defensor" prefer attacking football that produces more exciting scorelines.
Both teams enter the match with significant selection headaches. The hosts will miss Emiliano Garcia and Rodrigo Amaral through suspension, plus injury concerns around Guillermo Bortagaray and Tabare Viudes. "Defensor" face even bigger problems with captain Guillermo de los Santos suspended alongside Patricio Pacifico, while Lucas Agazzi and Erico Cuello are injured.
Interestingly, "Wanderers" sat 13th after the Apertura tournament with just 12 points from 15 matches. Things got so bad that Juan Martinez lasted only 56 days as manager before Apud's appointment. By contrast, "Defensor" finished fifth in the Apertura despite a poor run of three defeats in their final five matches.
Inacio Ituralte, who took charge of "Defensor" in April following Alvaro Navarro's dismissal, hasn't exactly impressed since his appointment. The constant coaching carousel at the club - few managers last even a year - continues to hamper a squad considered one of Uruguay's most talented.
By the way, the Uruguayan Championship has a fascinating quirk - in its 125-year history, every single champion has come from Montevideo. Not surprising when you consider 12 of the 16 teams in the 2025 season represent the capital city.
Despite both teams' attacking potential, history suggests this derby won't be a goal-fest. Will Apud's rejuvenated "Wanderers" continue their positive momentum, or can "Defensor" overcome their selection issues to claim a vital away win?
