River Plate took a big step towards the next round thanks to an easy 6-0 victory away at Deportivo Binacional last week. The team are sitting in the second spot of Group D on seven points, three ahead of their next opponents, and will qualify for the round-of-16 in case of winning here. Marcelo Gallardo’s men have been unbeaten in their last four matches in all competitions, winning two and drawing two. At home, River registered three victories and one draw in 2020. However, they will play as hosts at Independiente until further notice due to remodelling works at Estadio Monumental.
Sao Paulo will find it tough to go forward in the Copa Libertadores after their 4-2 away defeat at LDU Quito. Having secured only four points in as many matches, they need to beat River Plate away to keep their hope alive. Last weekend, the team drew 1-1 at Internacional. Therefore, O Tricolor are third-placed in the Brazilian league table on 19 points, five behind leaders Atletico Mineiro. However, Sao Paulo is winless in their last five competitive matches, having drawn four and lost one. On away turf, they managed only two points in the last four games.
Even if a point is enough for River Plate to advance, they should have enough to claim three points here against a Sao Paulo team that must win and will have to take risks.
BET: River -0.75Â @ 1.80
