Universidad Catolica produced a worthy performance on their visit to Independiente last Thursday, but they ended up losing 1-0. It was their only loss in the last eight competitive matches (five victories, two draws) considering they beat Fuerza Amarilla 2-1 away last Sunday to stay in the second spot of the Ecuadorian league table a single point behind Macara. Los Camaratas should take advantage of the 2850 meters of altitude at Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa in Quito if they want to keep their hope alive. In fact, Universidad Catolica won seven and drew one of their last eight home matches.
Pedro Pablo Hernandez’s goal gave Independiente a narrow lead, which they will have to defend in Quito after their 1-0 home win last week in coach Sebastian Beccacece’s debut. On Sunday, the team won 1-0 again (at Defensa y Justicia) in the league season opener. El Rojo won four of their last five matches in all competitions (only losing to Rionegro Aguilas 3-2 away in May) and they also claimed three victories in the last five on away turf (suffering two defeats).
Last week’s game was affected by some heavy rain and still was open enough for both teams to have good chances. I expect even more of this 2nd leg as the hosts will use the altitude factor in their favour and that usually creates fast-paced games.