Estudiantes (Argentina) vs Carabobo (Venezuela)
Estudiantes let a valuable point slip away in their visit to Botafogo FR, losing 3-2 after conceding a heartbreaking goal in the 85th minute. El Pincha dropped to second place in Group A with nine points, ahead of the Brazilian side on goal difference and one point behind Universidad de Chile. Since those two clubs face each other on Tuesday, Eduardo Domínguez’s men only need a draw to advance to the Round of 16. This was their second consecutive defeat in all competitions.
Carabobo FC were officially eliminated from international competition for the upcoming semester following a heavy 4-0 away loss to Universidad de Chile. Los Granates have earned just one point in five Copa Libertadores matches and are guaranteed to finish last in Group A. Last Thursday, they also fell 4-2 at home to Deportivo Táchira, ending their chances of reaching the Venezuelan league final. In fact, Carabobo are winless in their last five matches across all competitions (one draw and four losses), and have lost their last two away from home.
Estudiantes will advance even with a draw, but I can’t imagine them just settling with such a poor result. They will play against the worst team of this competition that is totally eliminated and has an average of more than 2 goals conceded per game (11 in 5 matches) so I expect a very comfortable win for the hosts and with the 3 points they’ll probably finish first and secure home advantage in the next round.