Patronato (Argentina) vs Olimpia (Paraguay)
Patronato secured their first continental victory in history last time out, when they showed an excellent display of football to beat FBC Melgar 4-1 at home. That means El Patron are now third-placed in group H on three points, two behind Olimpia, and have here the big chance of climbing into the qualifying zone. However, the team are living difficult times in the Argentine second division: they lost 3-1 away at bottom-placed San Telmo last Saturday, dropping down to the 16th spot of the Primera Nacional’s group A on 18 points, just three above the relegation zone. Overall, Patronato won three, drew one and lost two of their last six in all competitions. At home, they are on four unbeaten (two victories and two stalemates).
Meanwhile, Olimpia managed a valuable 2-2 away draw at Atletico Nacional three weeks ago thanks to a strike from Facundo Bruera in the 78th minute. That result allowed them to make it five points in three matches in group H, sitting in second spot, two above Wednesday’s opponents. However, El Decano lost 1-0 away at Libertad (who became champions) last Saturday, which dropped down to the seventh spot of the Torneo Apertura table on 27 points in 19 games. Olimpia are on six matches without a win in all competitions, drawing four and losing two. In fact, they took two points from the last 12 available on the road.
Patronato showed in their last game that they are playing without pressure and making open games. Olimpia could almost secure a place in the next round with a win here, so I expect to see goals here.