In an eagerly anticipated Copa Libertadores clash, Universitario hosts Botafogo at the U Marathon Monumental Stadium this Thursday.
Both teams are vying for crucial points to advance from Group D, making this match a significant encounter.
Match Preview
Universitario
Universitario began their Copa Libertadores journey with a thrilling 2-1 comeback against LDU Quito.
However, they have since struggled, managing only a 1-1 draw against Junior Barranquilla and suffering a 3-1 defeat to Botafogo.
Despite these setbacks, Universitario remains a formidable opponent at home, maintaining a strong record in the Peruvian top flight. They currently lead Liga 1 with 11 wins and three draws from 15 matches.
In their latest domestic outing, Universitario triumphed 4-1 over Sporting Cristal, with standout performances from Andy Polo, Martin Perez Guedes, Edison Flores, and Rodrigo Urena. This victory is a morale booster as they prepare to face Botafogo.
Botafogo
On the other hand, Botafogo had a rocky start, losing 3-1 to Junior Barranquilla and 1-0 to LDU Quito.
However, they bounced back with a 3-1 win over Universitario and a subsequent 2-1 victory against LDU Quito.
These wins have propelled them to six points, placing them just above Universitario in Group D.
Botafogo’s domestic form has been steady, highlighted by a 1-1 draw with Fortaleza, leaving them fourth in the Brazilian Serie A with 10 points from six games.
Team News
Universitario will rely on Edison Flores, who has been in fine form with four goal involvements in his last five matches.
He is expected to partner with Alex Valera in the attack. Their defense will feature Aldo Corzo, Williams Riveros, and Matias Di Benedetto, protecting veteran goalkeeper Sebastian Britos.
Botafogo faces injury challenges with key defenders Fernando Marcal and Pablo sidelined. Matheus Nascimento, Rafael, and Tiquinho Soares are also unavailable.
However, they will count on veteran midfielder Eduardo and striker Luiz Henrique to lead their attack.
Prediction
Given Universitario’s strong home record and recent form, we expect them to edge out Botafogo in a closely contested match.
On top of that, we expect a narrow victory for the hosts, likely a 2-1 scoreline, as they capitalise on their home advantage and the momentum from their recent win over Sporting Cristal.
FAQ
When and where is the Universitario vs Botafogo match taking place? The match is scheduled for Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the U Marathon Monumental Stadium.
What is the significance of this match? This is a crucial Copa Libertadores Group D clash with both teams needing points to advance to the knockout stages.
How has Universitario performed in the Copa Libertadores so far? Universitario started with a 2-1 win over LDU Quito, followed by a 1-1 draw with Junior Barranquilla, and a 3-1 loss to Botafogo.
What is Universitario's current form in domestic competitions? Universitario is performing well domestically, leading the Peruvian Liga 1 with 11 wins and three draws from 15 matches.
How did Universitario perform in their latest domestic match? Universitario won 4-1 against Sporting Cristal, with goals from Andy Polo, Martin Perez Guedes, Edison Flores, and Rodrigo Urena.
How has Botafogo performed in the Copa Libertadores so far? Botafogo lost their opening matches to Junior Barranquilla (3-1) and LDU Quito (1-0) but bounced back with wins over Universitario (3-1) and LDU Quito (2-1).
What is Botafogo's current form in domestic competitions? Botafogo is fourth in the Brazilian Serie A, with 10 points from six games, including a recent 1-1 draw with Fortaleza.
Who are the key players to watch for Universitario? Edison Flores, who has four goal involvements in his last five matches, is a key player for Universitario, alongside Alex Valera.
Who are the key players to watch for Botafogo? Eduardo and Luiz Henrique are crucial for Botafogo, especially with several key players sidelined due to injuries.
What are the predicted starting lineups for both teams? Universitario: Britos; Corzo, Riveros, Di Benedetto; Urena, Polo, Guedes, Concha, Portocarrero; Flores, Valera. Botafogo: Victor; Suarez, Halter, Bastos, Hugo; Barbosa, Freitas; Henrique, Savarino, Jeffinho; Santos.
Universitario 
Botafogo 
