What River did for the Club World Cup to have nothing to do with Boca Juniors.

As anticipation builds for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, River Plate has officially unveiled its squad list, complete with the shirt numbers each player will wear. The announcement has generated considerable discussion, particularly due to a notable absence from the numerical assignments: the No. 12 jersey.

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In a move that has captured headlines across Argentina and beyond, River Plate has opted not to allocate the number 12 to any of its players for the prestigious international tournament. This decision is widely interpreted as a deliberate symbolic gesture, given the strong association of the number 12 with fierce rivals Boca Juniors and their passionate fanbase, often referred to as "La Doce."

The rivalry between River Plate and Boca Juniors is one of the most intense in world football, deeply ingrained in the culture of Buenos Aires and Argentina. Every aspect of this rivalry is scrutinized, from on-field performances to subtle off-field actions. The omission of the number 12 from River's Club World Cup roster is seen by many as another chapter in this ongoing narrative, a quiet but firm declaration of their identity in opposition to their eternal adversaries.

River Plate's official communication regarding the squad numbers did not provide an explicit reason for the absence of the No. 12. However, the context of the rivalry makes the interpretation almost universal among football followers in the region. Clubs often make symbolic choices regarding squad numbers, sometimes retiring them in honor of legendary players or, as in this case, opting not to use certain numbers due to external associations.

The full squad list reveals a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents, all geared towards making a significant impact on the global stage. Star players are set to don their customary numbers, while new additions have been assigned their places within the numerical hierarchy. The focus for coach Martín Demichelis and his team remains firmly on their preparations for the Club World Cup, where they aim to compete against the champions of other confederations for ultimate club glory.

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While the primary objective is sporting success, the decision regarding the No. 12 has added an intriguing layer to River Plate's presence at the tournament. It underscores the unique cultural weight that football carries in Argentina and how even seemingly minor details can carry profound significance within the context of its most emblematic rivalries. Fans and pundits alike will be watching not only River's performance on the pitch but also how these symbolic gestures continue to play out in the grand tapestry of Argentine football.