Patronato (Argentina) vs Botafogo (Brazil)
Patronato claimed one of their most iconic victories in history in their last continental match, when they beat Atletico Nacional 1-0 away in Colombia thanks to a strike from Cristian Gonzalez. As a result, they climbed into third spot of the Copa Libertadores’ group H on six points to reach this playoff. However, El Patron continue struggling in the Argentine second division: they lost 2-0 away at Alvarado last Saturday, stopping a two-game winning streak and dropping down to the 12th place of the group A table on 28 points after 23 matches. Patronato are on two consecutive victories at their own stadium.
Meanwhile, Botafogo FR had to settle for a ticket to this playoff after an unexpected 1-1 home stalemate against Chilean side Magallanes in the Copa Sudamericana group A final round: the team finished in second spot on ten points, trailing leaders LDU Quito by two. On the other hand, O Fogao remain almost perfect when it comes to the league: last Saturday, they won 2-0 away at Gremio to stay as table toppers on 36 points after the first 14 Brasileirao rounds, ten points above their last rivals and Flamengo. Botafogo are on seven matches unbeaten in all competitions, winning five and drawing two. On away turf, they took ten points from the last 12 on offer without even conceding.
I can’t see how this mid table 2nd division Patronato that will have several important missings (left back Facundo Cobos, right back Matias Ruiz Diaz, centre back Cristian Gonzalez, winger Nazareno Solis and striker Enzo Diaz) will be able to hold the best team in Brazil right now.