Corinthians (Brazil) vs Rosario Central (Argentina)
Corinthians brought home a valuable goalless draw from their difficult trip to Rosario Central last Thursday, and now have the chance to reach the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals for the first time since 2022. On Sunday, Fernando Diniz’s side lost 2–1 at home to Cruzeiro EC, leaving them ninth in the Brasileirao with 32 points from 23 matches. The result also ended a three-match unbeaten run across all competitions (two wins and one draw). At home, O Timão have won two, drawn one and lost two of their last five matches. Memphis Depay has resolved his contractual dispute and is available for Thursday. Rosario Central could not make home advantage count and, despite being the better side for spells, eventually settled for a goalless draw against SC Corinthians on Thursday night. They must now fight for a place in the quarter-finals in Brazil. On Sunday, with a completely alternative lineup, El Canalla defeated Barracas Central 1–0 away to reach 10 points from five Torneo Clausura matches and move third in Group B. They also moved to within one point of the Copa Libertadores qualification places in the annual standings. Rosario Central should have won the 1st leg but they missed too many chances, but this 2nd game should be different as Corinthians will have available their star striker Memphis Depay. A goal should open things up and I expect an open game here with the hosts looking better in attack.