Audax Italiano vs Estudiantes
Audax Italiano returns to the Copa Libertadores (third appearance in history, first since 2008) after finishing in third place in the Chilean league in 2021. However, the team are finding trouble this term. Last Saturday, they drew 1-1 away at Colo Colo to clinch their first point in three rounds so far. Overall, they haven’t claimed any wins in their last six competitive matches, drawing four and losing two since beating Everton 2-1 away in November. As hosts, Audax are on three without a win (two stalemates and one defeat). However, they have been hosting their home matches at O’Higgins since October considering their own stadium is now a Covid-19 vaccination center.
Estudiantes produced a remarkable campaign in the Argentine league in 2021, securing a sixth place in the aggregate table to make their 16th appearance in the Copa Libertadores (four titles). Ricardo Zielinski’s men beat Lanus 2-1 at home last Saturday to remain perfect in the Copa Liga Profesional, sitting at the top of the group B table with nine points after three consecutive victories. Furthermore, El Pincha are on four away matches unbeaten, with two wins and two draws in that spell.
Estudiantes is in much better form and I expect them to get the win in this 1st leg of the 2nd qualifying stage