The last sixteen of the Copa Libertadores has thrown up some interesting fixtures, with the heavyweights of South American football looking to make through to the quarter-finals. With Brazilian sides such as Atletico Mineiro, Gremio and Fluminense already in the draw for the last eight, a number of traditional top teams will look to join them in the race for glory.
Velez Sarsfield vs Newell’s Old Boys
A clash between two of Argentina’s representatives, Velez hold a slender lead after the first leg. However, Copa Libertadores betting odds dictate that the tie is not over by any means, with Newell’s still in with a chance. Velez won the first leg away from home 1-0, with an invaluable second-half winner from Agustin Allione. The result was something of a shock given that Newell’s are currently second in the Primera Division, while Velez are struggling. The hosts will look to sharpshooter Ignacio Scocco to get the goals to get them back in the tie.
Palmeiras vs Tijuana
Brasileirao side Palmeiras host Mexicans Tijuana in another of the last 16 ties, with the match-up finely poised after a 0-0 draw at the Estadio Caliente. Betting previews indicate that this will be one of the closest ties in the round, with the odd goal potentially deciding the victor. Palmeiras suffered the embarrassment of relegation to Serie B last term, while Tijuana are in mid-table in Liga MX. The visitors will hope a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Guadalajara in their last outing can motivate them to get the away goals to see them through. Palmeiras lost their last three games before the draw in Mexico, and the Estadio Municipal faithful will hope their side can get back to winning ways here.
Corinthians vs Boca Juniors
Boca Juniors hold a slender 1-0 advantage over Brazilian side Corinthians in the last of the ties. The Argentine side are struggling domestically, and will hope that progression on the continent can bolster the team’s confidence. A Nicolas Blandi strike gave CABJ victory in the first leg. Corinthians will look to come out of the blocks quickly in the return leg in Sao Paulo, and will know that an early goal could turn the tie in their favour. Tite’s side certainly have the firepower to win the game, and will look to experienced Peruvian Paolo Guerrero and high-profile January signing Alexandre Pato to get the goals to make the quarter-finals. The games will be played over the 14th and 15th of May.
