In an exciting Copa Sudamericana Round of 32 clash, Cerro Porteno will host Athletico Paranaense.
This first-leg encounter is set to take place at General Pablo Rojas Stadium in Asuncion. Here’s an in-depth look at both teams, their form, team news, and predictions for this highly anticipated match.
Team Form and Performance
Cerro Porteno
Cerro Porteno enters this match after a somewhat disappointing run in the Copa Libertadores, where they finished third in their group.
Despite this, they have shown resilience in home games, remaining undefeated on their turf during the group stage.
Their last competitive match ended in a 1-1 draw against Colo-Colo, and they have managed to maintain a strong defensive record at home, conceding only once in three fixtures.
Athletico Paranaense
Athletico Paranaense has displayed a mixed form in the Copa Sudamericana. They started strong, winning their first four matches with a combined score of 16-2.
However, their performance dipped towards the end of the group stage, losing their final two games by a single goal each.
Recently, under new manager Martin Varini, they secured a convincing 3-0 win against Yprianga in the Copa do Brasil, indicating a potential resurgence in form.
Team News
Cerro Porteno
Cerro Porteno will be missing Bruno Valdez and Lucas Quintana due to cruciate ligament injuries, and Alan Benitez is suspended following a red card in their last Copa Libertadores match.
Federico Carrizo, who scored twice in the Libertadores group stage, and goalkeeper Jean, who kept two clean sheets, will be crucial players to watch.
Athletico Paranaense
For Athletico Paranaense, Felipinho is likely out due to illness, while Nikao is sidelined with a thigh injury.
Agustin Canobbio is available after winning a bronze medal with Uruguay in the Copa America.
Key player Gonzalo Mastriani, who has five goals in this tournament, will lead the attack alongside Lucas Di Yorio.
Head-to-Head and Predictions
Historically, Athletico Paranaense has had the upper hand, winning their only previous encounter in a penalty shootout during the 2005 Copa Libertadores.
Cerro Porteno’s recent form at home makes them a tough opponent, but Athletico Paranaense's experience in knockout fixtures, having won the Sudamericana twice, could give them the edge.
Prediction
Given the long break since Cerro Porteno's last competitive game and Athletico Paranaense's knockout prowess, a narrow win for the visitors seems likely. We predict:
Our Prediction: Cerro Porteno 0-1 Athletico Paranaense
Paranaense 
Cerro 
