Estudiantes (Argentina) vs. Cusco (Peru)
Estudiantes began their Group A campaign in the Copa Libertadores with a valuable 1–1 away draw against Independiente Medellín, a result that left them satisfied despite having led for more than 50 minutes. Then, on Saturday, with heavy rotation implemented by head coach Alexander Medina, they secured a 2–1 home victory over Unión Santa Fe to stay in second spot in Group A of the Torneo Apertura with 24 points. In fact, El Pincha have lost only one of their last five matches across all competitions (three wins and one draw). At home, Estudiantes are on a two-game winning streak.
Cusco FC, last season’s Peruvian runners-up, did not get off to a good start in their return to the Copa Libertadores. Although they put up a fight, they were unable to contain the strength of defending champions CR Flamengo and ended up losing 2–0 at home. That result ended a mini run of two consecutive victories, both away from home and in league play. The team had no domestic action over the weekend and currently sit sixth in Liga 1 with 13 points after the first nine matches.
In the context of a tough group, this is the game everyone expects to win: the weakest rival of the group at home, Estudiantes should try to win and score as much as possible. Cusco’s only strength is the altitude of their own stadium and here should be in big trouble against a much better team.
BET: Estudiantes -1.75 @ 1.85